Papa and Granny's Clan

Video of Chesley

2012-01-27T18:10:00.000-08:00

Jon Chesley Williams

2012-01-18T21:34:00.001-08:00

On Jan. 18th 2012, we lost a brother, uncle, cousin and friend. Jon Chesley Williams was born Jan. 27th 1945 in Cedar City, UT to Chester Dunford and Carma Davis Williams.

He was raised in Kanarraville and attended grade school there. He graduated from Cedar High School in 1963 and went on to receive his BA in communications at CSU (now SUU). He did graduate work in Telecommunications at George Washington University. He also earned his paralegal certificate while living in Denver.

Chelsey married Jane Mortensen in 1970 in Las Vegas, Nev. They had one son, Jeremy Patrick Williams. Jeremy passed away in June of 2011 from brain cancer. Ches and Jane were later divorced.

Ches found joy in working at US West. He enjoyed traveling and lived in many different states. He met and associated with many wonderful people from all walks of life. He enjoyed volunteering, gardening and visiting with friends and family. He helped with many projects for human and animal rights. His life would not be complete without one of his beloved pets by his side.

When he retired in 2000, he returned to Kanarraville and lived with his mother. Ches was a friend to many. We are grateful that he has now found peace and is free from pain.

He is survived by his siblings, Michael (Rosalie) Williams of Kanarraville, Deborah (Ronald) Blake of Ivins, and Jeffrey (Ellen) Williams of Ivins, many nieces and nephews, cousins, and cherished friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and his son, Jeremy. A celebration of life will be held at the Kanarra Town Hall on Sat. Jan. 28th 2012 at 2:00 p.m.

My little Sheldon

2011-12-29T12:27:00.001-08:00

Everybody keeps telling Brenner he is Sheldon... from The Big Bang Theory. I had to bribe him, but I dressed him up like Sheldon and took his pic... this is for you Libby, Tanner, Logan and Sydney:)

Thanksgiving Remembered

2011-11-23T16:05:00.000-08:00

Remember a few years back when we celebrated Thanksgiving in Kanarraville? Well, since I have moved I have been cleaning out and throwing away stuff. Upon my throwing away of stuff I came across some cards with things that we all were grateful for (a few years back).

Uncle Michael: Grateful for Health, and being retired.
Aunt Rosalie: Grateful for Bubba (may he rest in peace), and a job.
Klint: I'm thankful for my Zeiss binoculars, spending time in the woods with loved ones, and boobinunch????
Summer: I am thankful for vehicles, binkies, soap, for family, church and the love it shows! For having a companion that loves me unconditionally and for a wonderful extended family.
Thayne: I am grateful for my Country, my religion, and a loving Heavenly Father and his Plan for Happiness, and Family! I am also grateful for a Mother who keeps you in check like when she broke the broom over my butt at Granny's.
Jenny: I'm grateful for good health, and cold milk and cereal.
Uncle Chesley: Thankful for David Ence and TV.
Uncle Ron: I'm grateful for river trips with my family each summer, and for a wife who makes my home crafty and beautiful.
Aunt Debbie: I'm thankful for toilet paper, and for my ancestors and what they had to sacrifice to join the church.
Josh: I'm thankful for brunettes from Sacramento, rivers, fish, and spending "one on one" time with Papa growing up.
Melanie: I'm so grateful for the opportunity to be a mother, my children are my heart. Also, for Colorado River Guides with very little hair and huge hearts!!!
Tisha: I'm grateful for my cellphone, music, family, friends, and my boyfriend Taylor.
Corbin: Thankful for the holidays, and the hospital.
Tanner: I'm thankful for Will Ferrell, and shelter.
Ryan: I am grateful for living in a free country, to do as we please.
Anisa: I am thankful I don't have to work and can stay home with my kids, and for child proof locks.
Lucas: I am thankful for my new sweet ride, and for my family.
Shellie: I am thankful for Cash not stealing my clothes anymore, and for being so blessed and have everything I want.
Logan: I'm grateful for Libby's bad hair at Flint's baptism, and for the seasons because variety is the spice of life.
Sydney: (Possibly Logan wrote this first part) I'm grateful for Man vs. Wild, because if I ever find my self lost in the African Savanna (and I might) I know I can drink the juice from elephant poop and stay alive. AND, if I had one I'd be grateful for a washing machine.
Uncle Heff: I'm grateful for Family and guns.
Aunt Ellen: I am thankful to be living in this day and age, and bathrooms.
Roberta: Grateful for the gospel, and to live in the good o'l USA.
Libby: I'm thankful for many wonderful summers sitting in the swings drinking homemade root-beer and hanging with a wonderful family. Also thankful for all the travels I've able to do - Hawaii baby here I come.
Cash: I'm thankful for the air that we breath, and for working.
Jessica: I'm grateful for Libby's pecan pie, Dr. Pepper, Jane Austen novels, and LOTR (Lord of the Rings). Also grateful that I am able to go to college and continue my education.
Flint: I'm grateful to live in a home and for having such a crazy sister (it's great).

I know times have changed, life isn't going the way we want it to, but I hope that we can take some time this Thanksgiving holiday to remember how truly blessed we are.

Scary as Hell.... There no other way to say it...

2011-11-05T22:02:00.001-07:00

Thought I would post on the family blog since I never do...
Don't let his adorable little face FOOL you!!!!! He is my devil baby....
This kid is going to be the death of me!!! Maybe at the very least, I will need some serious therapy if stuff like this keeps happening. Seems like since he was born he has been scaring the crap out of me..
I got home from work this morning and Lucas had gone in. I was alone and sleep deprived cause I just got off an 8 hour overnight shift. I decided to lay in my room while Legacy was still asleep in our bed. West was wide awake and was crawling on the floor in my room, when I heard him chocking.... I jumped up and ran over I checked his mouth but couldn't see anything. But he kept chocking and was getting worse to the point where he stopped breathing. At this point I had no idea what to do I was screaming as I was watching West start to turn blue. I was about to Dial 911 when I laid him over my knee and pounded on his back. When I looked in his mouth again I saw the edge (of whats in the picture above). I took my finger and dug it out. When I got it out I started bawling and shaking. West caught his breath and started screaming bloody murder as he was coughing up a little bit of blood. This scared me to my core, I was shaking for along time after this. As I held West in my arms crying and he was crying my sweet little girl came and put her arm around me and said "don't cry mommy west is ok now". She is the sweetest little thing ever. Then she said "Mommy you need to change your shirt it has blood on it and its freaking me out"... After watching him like a hawk all day long he seems normal. And yes I know he won't remember this but I won't EVER forget it...
I am not sure how he got this in his mouth since it was holding down wires. But we have now pulled them up and thrown them all away.

Shirt Order....

2011-10-10T21:03:00.001-07:00

Lucas and I are ordering shirts.. We are ordering shirts with Logan's logos and ours (See above) on them. If you didn't get a chance to get a shirt, we would be happy to get some for you.
Logan's Logo (If you need to re-fresh your memory)

Thanks Lucas and Shellie

Hiking kanarra canyon

2011-07-29T19:27:00.001-07:00

We would like to hike Kanarra Canyon on Sat. Aug. 6th. Anyone who wants to come is welcome to.
Let's plan on meeting at Cash's at 11:30. Pack a lunch.

Kenzley

2011-07-22T22:36:00.000-07:00

Mom and I finally went to see baby Kenzley. Kenzley is Tisha's baby. She is home from the hospital and doing well. She's a cute, tiny little thing.

Going Away Party

2011-07-15T10:48:00.001-07:00

We are having a going away party for Josh, Melanie and Tanner.
Date: Saturday July 23rd
Time: 5:00 pm
Place: Ron & Debbie's house
It is completely Pot Luck. Bring whatever you want. Anisa will make home made rootbeer with dry ice. We saw a lot of you over the 4th so we understand if not everyone can make it. Please RSVP by leaving a comment here or on Facebook. If you live by or are related to someone who does not read the blog, please help pass along the word.

The Great Grandkids

2011-07-09T21:12:00.000-07:00

Presley, Tanner, Legacy, West, Joren, Terek, Brenner, Ellie, Bryce, Zoe, Peyton and Trace

(I hope I didn't spell anyone's names wrong)

Jeremy's Obituary

2011-06-26T20:57:00.000-07:00

JEREMY WILLIAMS Obituary: View JEREMY WILLIAMS's Obituary by Salt Lake Tribune

Happy Birthday Mom!

2011-06-18T06:46:00.000-07:00

We celebrated Mom's 61st birthday last week. Happy Birthday Mom and we wish you many more to come:)

In Rememberence....

2011-06-10T20:16:00.000-07:00

Jeremy Patrick Williams

January 5th 1971-June 10th 2011We will miss you Jeremy. We are glad you don't have to suffer any more. We know you are enjoying being reunited with Granny and Papa. We will always remember the good times we had with you.

Papa & Granny's Great Grandkids - SO CUTE!

2011-05-17T21:04:00.000-07:00

Mr. Trace - eating frozen custard!!!

Baby Peyton laughing at her big brother!

Bryce trying not to smile for the camera!

Zoey - actually smiling for the camera!

Baby Eliza, happy as can be!

Big boy West, almost cracking a smile!

Miss Legacy striking a pose!

All these cute as can be Great Grandkids are so stinking darling...and Jessie and I were lucky to play with them for a short time!!!

Pig Out Cake (Summer Cooler Cake)

2011-04-20T15:32:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure which name is correct.... I have lost my recipe... and I can't find mom's either, so tell me if this is correct:

Pig Out Cake

1 box yellow cake mix
1 can (11 oz.) mandarin oranges (undrained)
4 eggs
1 C. Oil

Mix ingredients. Bake at 350 for 35-45 minutes.

Frosting:

1 cool whip (8 oz.)
1 pkg. instant vanilla pudding (small)
1 can. crushed pineapple (small. drained)

Mix and frost cake. Serve cold.

We Like Complements

2011-04-13T18:56:00.000-07:00

I was just over visiting my neighbor Rae who is part of the Kanarraville Historical Society. She helps put out the monthly newsletter. Some of you may know that Jessie just placed the story of Grandpa Jess in the latest newsletter. Well, Rae just received a letter the other day from a person in California who subscribes to the newsletter. This is what the letter said:

Rae,

A darling issue. Jessica Williams has a writer's eye, she got me really into Jess who shot his hand off and went on despite. She has a real feeling for her great grandpa and for his story. Compliment her from me. Kevin Williams' poem so sad and so direct, anyone who has ever tried to visit their old home but it isn't there any more will feel it. Loved the vicar joke.

Thanks so much for sending on.

Much Love, Clacy

From a Clancy Sigal in California.

The Man With One Hand: A Biography of Jesse Franklin Williams

2011-04-07T19:50:00.000-07:00

Here is the history I wrote on Grandpa Jess for everyone to read, and just to let everyone know it was published in the April 2011 Kanarraville Historical Society Newsletter! I'm pretty stoked about it.

The Incident…
The leaves on the tree were now several shades of red and orange. With frost covering the ground and the chill in the air, young Jess was prepared to go hunting on this bitter October morning.
“No you ain't goin' huntin'” said his father George.
“Fine!” said Jess storming out of the house.
Jess took his father's over-and-under shotgun and went hunting by himself. Heading up Kanarra Mountain, he admired the trees around him. Because he was easily distracted by everything around him Jess didn't notice the puddle of mud just in front of him. He slipped and dropped the shotgun. The barrels of the gun were filled with mud, but Jess didn't seem to notice, he just continued on.
With his heavy coat and the shotgun wedged under his arm he began to climb the fence. As he wrapped his legs around the top of the wooden fence the gun accidentally went off, and because of the clogged barrel the gun exploded. With the piercing crack of the gun Jess soon realized that his hand had been mangled. He made his way home, with his hand dangling at his side.
When his parents saw his mangled and bleeding hand they immediately sent someone on horse to Cedar City for a doctor. When the doctor arrived he was drunk, so twelve-years-old Jess had to sit for several hours in pain until the doctor was sober enough to perform the operation. Because there were no painkillers Jess had to suffer through the pain of the operation with only alcohol for relief. When the doctor was finally able to perform the operation he used a meat saw to cut off Jess' arm, and then poured turpentine on the stump. Luckily it healed without any trouble. From that day on Jess lived without his left hand.
Grandpa Jess: A Background
Jesse Franklin Williams was born September 4, 1876 in Kanarraville, Utah. He was the ninth child out of thirteen children. His parents were William George and Orilla McFate Williams. Out of the thirteen children only seven lived to adulthood, and all five of his sisters and one brother died in infancy. Jess was born in the home of his parents, which still stands, in Kanarraville, Utah. It was a large, two-story, brick house.
Orilla loved reading about the notorious outlaws Jesse and Frank James in Dime Novels. These outlaws were often seen as a modern day Robin Hood. Orilla and George decided to name their son Jesse Franklin Williams after these infamous bandits.
Jess was a handsome man with blue eyes, brown hair, and a medium build and stood about five feet and seven inches.
Jess went to school in “Kanarra” until he was sixteen. When he turned eighteen his father told him that he could have land or continue on with his education. Since he only had one hand he felt that an education would serve him better. He had the chance to attend Brigham Young Academy to study accounting. He studied there for a year, and in the family stories about my great-grandfather, it is unknown whether he actually graduated or not.
In 1896, at the age of twenty that blue eyed boy moved back home to Kanarraville, and began working in his father's store.

George Williams’ Kanarra Co-op Store in Kanarraville, Utah.

George Williams far left, with friends, and Jesse Williams far right.

Five years later Jess married Frances Rebecca Pollock on November 20, 1901. Together they had seven children. (Before he had passed away he had twenty-three grandchildren, and twelve great-grandchildren.) After they were married they moved into the house that Jess was born in. A few years after they were married they added onto the house, and were one of the first families to have a bathroom.

Jess and Frances' wedding picture taken on November 20, 1901

A Slight Temper Tantrum: Age 77
Sitting in his old rocking chair Jess struggled to pull on his old brown shoe. Once he had it on he took both laces in his right hand and began maneuvering the strings into a knot. After several attempts he ripped off his shoe and threw it across the room. After a few seconds of fuming and cursing under his breath he stood up, walked across the room, and picked up his shoe. Again he began pulling his shoe onto his foot, and after a few more struggled attempts at tying his shoes he was finally able to tie a knot.
According to my Aunt this happened continually. There were many times when he would become frustrated with his affliction and he would lose his temper. He didn't really lose his temper with people, but his disability had a tendency to get the better of him.
The Monkey Sock
He could do two different tasks with his stump. First, he would put it over his right arm to get it to stop shaking, which occurred later in his life. The second way he used his left arm was to tease his children and grand-children. He would often wear a brown-speckled sock with a white toe and heel over his stump. His children and grand-children called this a “monkey-sock” because it looked similar to a sock monkey. With his sock-covered stump he would poke it into kids' stomachs to tease them. This along with the fact that he wouldn't wear his dentures had the children laughing, and they couldn't help but love him.

Frances and Jess with grandsons Chesley (in Jess’ arms) and Michael. One of the only pictures of Jess that actually shows his stump.

Having Some Fun
My grandpa loved to have a good time. He loved playing marbles, singing, and he loved dancing, especially square dancing. Jess never learned to drive, but he loved travelling. Usually he would only get as far as Boulder City, Nevada, but he always enjoyed the drive.
Jess and Frances would often have parties at their house in Kanarraville. They belonged to a club called the “Elite Society.” The “Elite Society” consisted of married couple who would meet together about once a month. One meeting in particular Jess and Frances had a spook alley set up in the basement of their house. When the people were going through it they would step on a hidden board and they would get pulled up quickly, similar to an elevator. They would then find themselves standing in a cupboard in the bathroom on the main level.
A Final Act: Age 35
The sound of the gun rang as he fell to the ground. The sight of him lying on the ground frightened his children and they began to cry. His daughter Ethna started to scream when she saw her father fall to the ground. The actors stopped the play and Jess stood up so that his children could see that he was alive. They were using a real gun, but it was filled with blanks so that nobody would get hurt. His children didn't understand this and had indeed thought that their father had been killed.
The townspeople of Kanarraville enjoyed performing plays for the rest of the townspeople. Jess and Frances enjoyed participating in the plays, and took many lead roles. Some of the plays that they participated in were “Josh Winchester,” “Dot the Miner‟s Daughter,” “Old Glory,” “Our Jim,” “Star Bright,” and “Dust of the Earth.”

Play “By Force of Impulse” Performed March 20, 1911

Back Row Left to Right: Jesse Williams, Lem Willis, J.J. Roundy, Reese J. Williams.

Middle Row: Will Stapley, Leo Balser, Jode Williams.

Bottom Row: Sade Reeves Williams, Hettie Davie, Adlie Wood, Frances Williams

Continual Job Searching
Jess took many different types of jobs so that he could support his family. Having an education he could have moved to the city and become an accountant but he couldn't leave his hometown of Kanarraville. Sometimes Jess had difficulty finding work that he could do because of his disability, but somehow he was able to find work.
He worked for Bishop Berry, pitching and pulling hay. For several years they had the post office in their house. For several years he worked at his father's store “The Kanarra Co-op.” His wife Frances would often take in washings, and Jess and his son Chester would take turns moving the lever back and forth on the old conventional washer.

Jess and Frances’s house in Kanarraville, Utah, taken in the 1930s when they had the Post Office

Jess and Frances would also take in boarders as another way to make some extra money. Sometimes the people who would ride on the mail truck would stay overnight. Once, later in Jess' life, President Lorenzo Snow, Prophet of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, stayed at Jess' house on his way to St. George.
During Franklin D. Roosevelt's administration as the U.S. President, he started a program called the Works Progress Administration. Jess was made a foreman for Iron County. They would build dams, irrigation ditches, and outhouses for the government.
Jess also worked for several years as the janitor in the church house. One day while he was cleaning the church he felt someone choking him, but there was no one around. He could feel the hands at his neck, but he couldn't see or touch anything. He fell to the ground and began praying fervently, and felt that hands release him.
Overcoming
Overcoming a disability is difficult but Jess was able to overcome this accidental handicap. He was a hard worker full of determination and great strength. With only his right hand he could hold an ax and chop wood. He could ride a horse or drive a team, (but didn't like to because if they got out of control he couldn't pull the horses to a stop without two hands). With great determination he was able to take care of his property without anyone's help.
Because Jess only had his right hand it was muscular and strong. He was able to do one handed pull-ups. Because of how much he used his arm as he got older he became so shaky that he could hardly eat. Grandpa Jess also had beautiful penmanship. He was the Kanarraville ward clerk for nine years
God Bless You
One morning Jess had been chopping wood and later was visiting with some friends. After they left, he stood up and went into his room to get some papers. He then sat back down in his old rocking chair. Frances was in the kitchen cooking, and talking to him. She heard him sneeze, and a few minutes later she went into the sitting room and found that Jess had died in his chair. No one knows for sure how he died. The day was March 27, 1959 and he was 89. He is buried in the Kanarraville Cemetery next to his wife Frances.
Jesse Franklin Williams was a man who worked hard, loved everyone, and overcame many obstacles in his life. Even though I never met Jess I am grateful that I have gotten to know about him now, because he was a remarkable person who has passed on many great, and not so great, qualities to his children and grand-children.

Jesse Franklin Williams

Family Histories

2011-03-28T12:38:00.001-07:00

Mom lost her thumb drive with a lot of her genealogy on it. But she had a floppy disk that had the histories saved. So, I found an old computer at work that had a floppy drive:) and I posted them on here so they won't get lost again... I hope.

Jessie, maybe you could post your history on here as well.

Life History of Albert Davis

2011-03-28T12:15:00.001-07:00

As the flowers spring forth in May and bring joy to those who see them, a birth on Thursday, May 13, 1880, brought joy to James George and Polly Williams Davis of Kanarraville, Iron County, Utah. James George Davis was born in Llanelli, South Wales, converted to the LDS Church and traveled with his family over the ocean, and across the plains and settled at Fort Harmony, Utah. There he met Polly Williams who had been born in Mt. Pulaski, Sangamon County, Illinois. She also had been converted to the Church and had traveled to Utah with the Saints. They were married in 1856 in Fort Harmony, Utah. They had three children there. They were: Rachel, born April 1857; Elizabeth Ann, born January 8, 1859; and James Lorenzo, born February 14, 1861. Rachel died in infancy.

Fort Harmony was stricken with floods, so in 1862 the Fort was closed and James and Polly moved north to Fort Kanarra. Two more children were born there: William Rees, on February 2, 1863; and George Alma on February 14, 1866. Again, that fort met with disaster in the form of sandstorms and was closed. The people resettled just one mile south, and named it Kanarraville. The rest of the children were born there. They were: Myron Thomas, born March 17, 1868; Rees on February 4, 1871; Nora on December 23, 1873; and Eleanor Matilda on January 26, 1877. The family greeted the new little one born on the beautiful May day of the 13th, 1880 with the knowledge they were blessed with a spring flower fresh from heaven. He was given the name of Albert. Then, one more child, Alice May, was born on August 19, 1883. This completed the family.

Albert found his new home to be a small log house located on the lower street in Kanarra where the Lynn Reeves’ home is presently. The lot had a high pole fence that gave privacy to those within, but there was a swinging gate that welcomed all who wished to enter from without. Try to picture life in the 1880’s. No modern conveniences, homemade furniture, ten children in a small house, and all the work it took just to survive. Food had to be planted, cared for and harvested. Wood had to be chopped, stacked and carried in, to use in cooking and staying warm. Clothes were hand-sewn, hard to come by, and washed by being scrubbed on a washboard. There was very little money – only that which could be earned from selling homegrown commodities or doing manual labor. Because there was very little money, Albert and his brothers and sisters went without shoes most of the year. Their feet became so tough that it has been told they could slide on the icy roads with their bare feet.

With a family of that size, every member did their share of work. Albert, or “Bert” as he was affectionately called, learned to work and work hard from an early age. One of his first chores was to get the drinking water for his family. It was not from a faucet but from the ditch. He would fill buckets, then carry them to a barrel that was kept under a locust tree that gave shade to the door-yard and sidewalk. Having baths, washing clothes, and water for cleaning, had to be carried into the house by this means. Doing this lifting, chopping and carrying wood, walking to where you needed to go, made a healthy and physically fit body.

However, our physical needs are not the only important things. A child needs to grow emotionally and spiritually. Bert grew up in the home of members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints that had suffered many hardships in crossing the plains, and in being faced with the trials of so many moves in their early married life. Many nights must have been spent by the Davis children listening to the stories their father told of his life in Wales and of crossing the ocean, which most of them would never do. Also of their parents’ experiences of seeing and listening to the Prophet Brigham Young and the many other faith building experiences they had. Because the Gospel meant so much to them, their children were all baptized and confirmed members of the LDS Church. There is no record of the day Bert was blessed, but he was baptized on October 15, 1893, by J. D. Williams, and confirmed that same day by Myron S. Roundy.

Bert attended school during his early years. The school was held in the old church house or in the Relief Society building. His schooling was limited to the 5th and 6th Reader as they were called in those days, which is the equivalent to the fundamentals received in the 10th or 11th grade.

As Bert was learning and receiving more knowledge in school, he was also learning more about the Gospel. The faith of the earlier generations seemed to be more of devotion and not that of needing to know all the answers. Maybe it was that their parents had seen miracles performed by Brigham Young and other leaders, or that they knew of life without the Gospel. Bert, too, must have seen prophets like Wilford Woodruff and Lorenzo Snow because they would travel through Kanarra on the way to St. George. Anyway, this would make a person have a stronger testimony.

People then would never go without paying their tithing. I’m sure when Bert was ordained a deacon he helped to gather the tithing. Then the people paid with what they grew or raised. For example, for every ten eggs they gave one, etc. Bert progressed and learned more about the Priesthood. On January 16, 1900, he was ordained a Deacon by William Ford. He was ordained a Teacher by William Ford on January 5, 1902. Joel J. Roundy ordained him to the office of a Priest on January 19, 1908. Then on November 1, 1908, James Wallace Williams ordained him an Elder.

Knowing of all the work and learning they had to do, we might think that they didn’t have time for fun, but this is not so. Bert’s father was a very talented man. He loved to sing and wrote many songs. They were also known for the many parties they had in their home. When children hear their parents singing, they know all is well and they are happy.

Bert’s family homesteaded a parcel of land on the Kanarra Mountain. They had a dairy there. There was a creek running through the land. This creek was named after his mother and still bears the name of Polly’s Creek. Bert spent many summers making butter and cheese, milking and delivering it down to the valley. As he grew older, he learned more working skills. Most of them had to do with animals. Automobiles were unknown then, and all their traveling was done with horses, either on the backs or pulled by them in a wagon or buggy. Bert was known to be a “true cowboy.” He could ride any horse, and was hired to break many horses for riding. He could drive a team of horses and many hair-raising wagon rides were experienced by anyone who rode with him. He used his talent with horses and a rope, and traveled to many rodeos trying his skill at roping animals. I’m sure he must have won at this event, because he once roped a wild, running coyote from his horse.

Bert had grown into a handsome and straight man with blue eyes, sandy hair and a large frame. He was 5’10” tall. He had not only gained a testimony, received his education, and learned to work hard, thus choosing to work with animals to earn his livelihood, but he gained a love for sports of all kinds and participated in many of them. The one he liked best and excelled in the most was running. Bert was a foot racer and he was best at 100 yards or longer. Then the people really loved these races and they traveled from town to town to compete. Bert’s brothers helped him to train by tying weights like rocks to his feet and legs to make his muscles develop more, so that he would be able to beat in racing, and Bert usually did.

Not only did he love sports; he also loved to dance. He probably loved to dance more than anything else, and he wanted others to be able to dance as well. Many a young man went to Bert for a dance ticket and was never refused. They usually repaid him by working for him or by bringing him fence posts.

As a man, he wanted more from life than a career and participating in dance and sport activities. He wanted the joys and blessings of a wife and children. I suppose Bert had many girlfriends and experienced puppy love and such, but one time he told a group of shearers that he was going home to marry Uncle Si Reeves’ baby. She was Hannah Augusta Reeves, the daughter of Josiah and Sarah Stapley Reeves. Hannah was born August 23, 1885, in Kanarraville, too, and was a lovely young girl with blue eyes, dark brown hair, and stood 5’4” tall. She was very deeply in love with Bert, and on December 8, 1908, they traveled by horse and buggy to the St. George Temple to be sealed for time and all eternity. They were married by David H. Cannon. Their witnesses were Samuel Miles and Henry J. White.

To this union five children were born. First was Leonard, born September 8, 1911. He was a farmer and raised sheep. His home was in Kanarra and he was married to Verna Platt Davis and they had two children. Leonard died of cancer on March 18, 1989. Next, their second child, was Delile, who was born April 26, 1914. He lived in Kanarra and was a coal miner, married to Gwen Williams Davis, and they were the parents of three children. Delile passed away on November 14, 1976, from a brain tumor and cancer. The third child was Elda, and she was born January 8, 1917. Elda lived in Summit, Utah, and was married to Rudger Fife. They had four children. Elda died of cancer on March 15, 1962. The fourth child was another girl named Carma. She was born August 6, 1920, and lives in Kanarraville. She married Chester Williams and they are the parents of four children. Last was Marva who was born on February 19, 1925. She made her home in New Harmony, Utah, and is married to Vivian Prince. They are the parents of five children. Albert was only able to know eight of his eighteen grandchildren. The rest were born after he passed away.

Bert worked hard to support his family and as said before, he worked mostly with animals. At one time, he worked for Johnny Adams in Imperial Valley, California, feeding and tending cattle. Many years he spent herding sheep for other people who were absent for a month at a time, leaving Hannah alone to raise the children. Sometimes he rented sheep to go along with his own. He and his children herded them at Spring Creek and other places. Bert was a sheep shearer also. He traveled in Idaho, Nevada and various parts of Utah shearing sheep.

Another job he had was being a stray-picker. When sheep men bring down their flocks from the mountain in the fall, many sheep have strayed from their owner’s flock to another’s. A stray-picker is a person who watches the sheep go through the dividing corrals and sorts out the sheep that belong in another herd. He got 25¢ a sheep. Now they get $3.00 a sheep. I guess trying to raise a family in the ‘20’s and during the depression makes a man find ways to earn a living by taking many different jobs. He was also City Marshall for a while and also a Quarantine Officer. In those days, a Quarantine Officer went to the homes where there was a contagious disease and made sure none of the people left the home, and no one else could enter until all danger of the disease was passed. Bert was also a janitor of the school when Leonard, his son, was away during World War II.

While working hard at what jobs he could find, Bert and Hannah raised chickens for the eggs and meat; also calves and pigs. They also had milk cows and a large vegetable garden. Bert met a lot of their needs by trading what he had to others for what they had. This is called bartering. He was always trading horses and other animals. He would trade potatoes, grain and other items to Dixie people, for casabas that he stored, buried in the grain so they would keep all winter. Food was hardly ever bought with money then, but was traded for. He always worked hard and provided for his wife and children.

Bert had many fine qualities and characteristics. He was very good-natured and very seldom became angry. If he did, he got over it in a hurry. He was usually nice to everyone but one time he did get into a fight. This man named Billy Roundy was a cantankerous fellow and he had been mean to some of Bert’s kids and animals. Bert didn’t like this, so when he went to talk to Billy they got into a fistfight. Billy, as usual, didn’t fight fairly and was pulling Bert’s hair through the fence. Neither of them won and Billy kept right on being mean to the kids and animals. Anyway, Bert did try to defend what was his.

Another quality he had that people remember most about him was that he was always singing. Not that he could carry a tune, but because he was happy. The two songs he sang most were “Knick Knack Paddy Whack, Give a Dog a Bone,” and “Cripety, Cripety, Crany Crow Went to the Well to Wash His Toe.” Michael, his grandson who was only seven when Bert died, remembers that he was always singing.

Another characteristic for which he was remembered, was that he would go any place, any time, anywhere, with anybody. When he went to visit he didn’t stay long and sometimes he was known to get up and leave in the middle of a conversation, when a person least expected it!

His children remember the many times be brought home gifts to them and Hannah after he had been away. To the children, he brought things like chocolate animals or figures that he had carved out of wood. For Hannah, he always brought her gifts when he went to Cedar City or other places, and he bought her clothes and accessories that were always more suited to her than she or other people would have chosen.

Marva, his youngest daughter, can remember the cleanliness of Bert. Every morning he would get up and scrub his whole head, his ears, and the back of his neck, very vigorously, to greet the day.

Throughout Bert’s life, he continued to be active in the Church. On December 9, 1930, he was ordained a High Priest by President William A. Palmer. There is no record to verify he was in the bishopric, but some people think he was. I’m sure he would have done a fine job if he had been. He was definitely in a presidency because his son, Leonard, remembers coming in late to a meeting and some girls teasing him that now that his dad was on the stand watching him, he had better watch what he did. He was a Ward Teacher for many years and I’m sure he was always willing to serve and help where he was asked. He was also a faithful tithe-payer and he taught his children the importance of this commandment.

In Bert’s lifetime, the world was experiencing many new discoveries and people were creating many new inventions. He saw life go from horse-and-buggy to cars and airplanes. He was able to ride in a train and to drive a car. Though he never owned a car, he drove other people’s cars. He had a driver’s license, one that never expired. Some people said he drove a car like he did a team of horses, and it was just about as scary to ride with him. He saw electricity, the telephone, radio, toilets, refrigerators, and washing machines invented and come into use. He had electricity, a fridge, a conventional washer and a radio, but they never got a bathroom, a TV or a telephone before he died. Bert really enjoyed listening to the radio. His favorite programs were “Amos and Andy,” and “Fibber McGee and Molly.” He really thought they were funny. He never got used to an indoor, flushing toilet or baths in a real bathtub. All he knew was a No. 3 tub and an outhouse.

Bert’s life was happy for him always, until he suffered a heart attack during the war. When Leonard left for the army, Bert took over the farm and being janitor of the school. One day when he was helping Delile, his son, and Chet, his son-in-law, haul hay, he had a heart attack. He was not taken that day but his heart was weak from then on and he couldn’t do much work. In October of 1948, he was put in the Iron County Hospital in Cedar City for his heart condition. While in there, he developed pneumonia and excess fluid built up in his body. On October 18, 1948, Bert literally drowned in his own fluid. His wife, children, family and friends were very saddened at his passing. His children to this day always talk with great love and respect about their beloved “Papa,” which they always called him instead of “Dad” or “Father.” He was laid to rest in the Kanarraville Cemetery on October 21, 1948.

Even though I never knew him, I have learned to love and respect him. My hope for his posterity and any others who loved him is that they will live their lives so they will be able to greet him on the glorious morning of the First Resurrection, and to be able to talk with him and know of his love for us.

Bert was known by many names,
Husband, Papa, brother, friend.
Bert lived as everyone should,
Happy and joyful from beginning to end.

May we live by his example,
So we can hear others say,
They’re kind, good-natured, pleasant,
They have followed in Bert’s way.

History of Jesse Franklin Williams

2011-03-28T12:13:00.000-07:00

Step back in time to 1876 when Ulysses S. Grant was President of the United States, General George Armstrong Custer was just killed by the Sioux Indians at the Battle of the Little Bighorn, Alexander Graham Bell invented the very first telephone and Utah was still a territory. Summer was just about over. There was a nip in the air. The birds were beginning to fly south and the leaves on the trees were changing colors. The people of the little Mormon community of Kanarraville, Iron County, Utah, were busy harvesting their summer crops, getting firewood, and making ready for the long, cold winter that was soon to come.

William George and Orilla McFate Williams were extra busy because they were preparing to receive a new little bundle from heaven, which would be their ninth child. The two children born just before this one had both died in infancy, so I’m sure they were both excited yet apprehensive for this birth. On Monday, September 4, 1876, they were blessed with a fine, healthy son that they named Jesse Franklin Williams.

During the 1870’s, Jesse and Frank James, the notorious outlaws, were thought highly of by many people because they were like Robin Hood of English legend, robbing the rich and giving to the poor, so they named their sixth son, Jesse Franklin, after the James brothers.

Jess, as he was usually called, was welcomed to this world by five brothers: George Alma, born April 26, 1862; John H., born June 8, 1864; Riley Garner, born July 20, 1866; James Wallace, born September 9, 1869; and Alvin Alonzo, born February 5, 1872. A girl born between James and Alvin, named Mary Matilda, was born December 2, 1870, but died at the age of one month. The two girls born just before Jess were Marcy Ann, born on May 11, 1874, and died at the age of one month; and Minetta Elizabeth, born August 8, 1875, and died at three months. Next came Joseph Sinith, born August 6, 1878, and three more children that died in infancy. Florence Lillian, born July 19, 1880, and died at age one month; Hannah May, born May 28, 1882, and died at age sixteen months; and Ira Clarence, born November 25, 1886, and died at age fifteen months. With Jess, seven brothers grew to maturity.

Jess was born in the home of his parents that was located on the west side of the block just south of the town square. It was a large two-story adobe brick house, large for those days. It had three rooms both up and downstairs and a two-room dirt cellar underneath. They cooked on a coal and wood stove and had to carry in their water from the ditch or catch the rain in barrels. They didn’t have a bathroom, but went to an outdoor toilet or used pots and then had to carry them outside to dump. Their clothes were washed on washboards and hung out to dry. Food couldn’t be bought but had to be raised and taken care of without the modern conveniences that we know. There were no refrigerators, freezers or electricity in their home. They had only coal oil lamps to see with at night.

Jess’ parents were both born in Illinois. George was born in Springfield to John and Marcy Lucas Williams who were probably from English descendants. His father died when he was two years old and he, his mother and sisters, became converted to the LDS church and traveled with the Saints to Utah and settled in Virgin, Utah. George was a big man, standing six feet tall and weighing around two hundred pounds. He had blue eyes and brown hair. He was a very hard worker and had a strong determination to be rich and be a landowner.

Jess’ mother, Orilla McFate was born in Nauvoo to James and Lucy Lisk McFate, who were Irish. Orilla came to Utah with a family she was working for and settled in Virgin, too. She was a small petite woman, only five feet tall. She had coal black hair and blue eyes and liked fancy things, but wasn’t known to be too ambitious. They married in Virgin and then moved to Kanarraville with their first four children. George came to Kanarra with only a shotgun to his name. When he died he was wealthy in the standards of those days and he owned a store, a whole city block, fields and mountain ground. His children soon used their inheritance unwisely and most of his sons were poor when they, too, passed away, except for John H. and Riley. But they had nothing to compare like George did. Jess inherited many characteristics from his parents yet was an individual with qualities of his own.

The first characteristic he started to develop besides learning to walk, speak and interact with others was to learn how to work. In those days, without work no one could survive. Jess’ first chores were probably bringing in water, carrying and stacking wood and helping in the home. Because Orilla had only boys, they learned to do inside chores too, like helping with dishes, washing clothes, sweeping and dusting. To just live, they had to raise their own fruits, vegetables and meat, and also to get extra meat they hunted wild game. So Jess learned to use guns as he grew older.

One of the most important qualities a child should develop is an awareness of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. Jess’ parents were LDS and they wanted their children to be too. So he was baptized on September 27, 1885, by John W. Brown and confirmed that same day by Rees James Williams. Through the years Jess was involved in the church, but wasn’t as active as he could have been. He was ordained a Deacon on January 10, 1897, when he was 21, by William Ford; a Teacher on February 5, 1905, by James Wallace Williams, his brother. He was ordained a Priest on November 30, 1925, by John W. Berry and then on November 23, 1929, Thomas J. Jones ordained him an Elder.

In 1925 he was called to be the Ward Clerk. He held this position for nine years. He kept the records very accurately and all things were written in his beautiful handwriting. While he was the Ward Clerk, he must have felt the spirit that the Bishopric feels as they are serving in their callings. Heavenly Father’s spirit is felt more readily when a leader needs to keep the Ward in tune with the Gospel and the Church standards. Jess, in his meetings with the Bishopric, must have felt it too. He was not only ordained into the higher Priesthood during this time, but he and his wife went to the St. George Temple to be sealed together for time and all eternity, and had most of their children sealed to them. Later on all their children were sealed to them. The first sealings and marriage took place on November 29, 1929.

Jess served the Lord in other ways too. He was a Ward Teacher and the president of the Genealogical Organization. He and his wife spent much of their time and money trying to find information about their ancestors. He was given a Patriarchal blessing on April 5, 1931, by Alex G. Matheson. Jess tried to develop the qualities of a worthy member of the LDS Church. He believed in God and Jesus Christ. He was a strong believer that all people should be morally clean and those who weren’t upset him very much. He was a kind person to all, and honest in his dealings. He also believed in paying his tithing.

He had three problems that kept him from being as worthy as he could have been. He felt bad that he couldn’t quit cussing and swearing, and for a long time he chewed tobacco and drank liquor some, but he was able to overcome these habits a few years before he died. Through it all he still knew of the truthfulness of the Gospel.

Jess’ formal schooling helped to develop his character even more. He went to school in Kanarra and received all the schooling he could that was available there. His father gave him the chance to go to the Brigham Young Academy to study accounting. His father had given his other sons a start in life with property. He attended college with his brother, Joseph Sinith, but there is no evidence whether he graduated with a degree or not. After he came home, he worked in his father’s store.
Jess learned in an extremely hard way to develop the characteristic of obedience. When he was twelve years old he wanted to go hunting but his father forbid him to take the gun. Jess disobeyed and took it anyway. It was an over-and-under shotgun and he had fallen and gotten the barrels full of mud. When he was climbing a barbed wire fence, it accidentally went off and because the barrel was clogged, the gun exploded and shot off his left hand. He went back to his home with his hand hanging by threads. They sent to Cedar City for a doctor twelve miles away, and he had to come back in a horse and buggy. When the doctor arrived he was too drunk to operate, so they had to wait for him to sober up. Jess had to endure all this without any painkillers. Finally, the doctor cut off the arm halfway to the elbow and pulled over the skin and sewed it closed. Again, Jess went through that without any painkillers. Losing his hand affected his life in many ways, and he learned that parents really do know what is best.

Although he was handicapped, he showed determination and strength by learning to do things that required two hands with only one. Even though he could ride a horse and drive a team, he didn’t like to because it was hard with only the one hand. If they got out of control, there was no way to pull the horses to a stop without the even pull of two hands. He could hoe weeds and chop wood, using his hand and upper arm, and never needed any help to keep his yard and sidewalks free of weeds, which they were, and he always had a big woodpile that he chopped and stacked very neatly alone. In fact, he had chopped wood the morning that he died. Because Jess only had the one hand, his arm became very strong and he could do chin-ups with only one hand. However, because he used it so much harder than normal, in his later years he became so shaky that he could hardly eat. He did use his stump in two ways though. First - he would put it over his other arm to get it to stop shaking. The second way, which is most remembered by his grandchildren, was that he always had a “money sock,” as they were called, over his stump. This sock was a work sock, kind of brown-specked with a white toe and heel. People used to make stuffed money toys out of them. Anyway, with his sock-covered stump he would always poke it into the kids’ stomachs to tease them. Sometimes he got a little too rough, but the kids seemed to love him even more.

Love is another quality Jess developed over the years. First, he loved his parents and brothers, then on to others like friends and relatives. As he grew to maturity, he longed for the love that only a man and his wife can share. Jess was a handsome man with blue eyes, brown hair, a medium build and stood about 5’7”. He fell in love with Frances Rebecca Pollock. She was the daughter of Joseph Henry and Malinda Elizabeth Roundy Pollock and was born February 25, 1882, in Kanarraville, too. She was a tall, lovely girl with brown eyes and dark brown hair. Two of Jess’ brothers, John H. and Joseph S. had married two of Frances’ sisters (Susannah Elizabeth and Mollie) and maybe they got together because of this, or maybe it was because they had grown up in that little town and were in activities together. Whatever the reason, they were married November 20, 1901, on the south porch of Jess’ parents’ home, by the bishop, Joseph S. Berry. From their love they produced six children. Lalif Dale was born October 18, 1903, and died when he was almost 19. Ethna Frances was born September 25, 1905, and married Wells A. Williams. They had nine children. Velma was born September 15, 1907, and married Sherald J. Peterson. They had three children. Chester Dunford was born August 31, 1912, and he married Carma Davis. They were the parents of four children. LaDene was born May 24, 1914 and married Nelpher Graff and had three children. He passed away and she then married Harlan P. Walker and they had one child. Last was Paul Ronald who was born May 18, 1920, and married Eva Stucki. They had three children. All of the 23 grandchildren were born before Jess died. He also had twelve great-grandchildren when he passed away.

Jess’ parents built themselves a new home on the northeast corner of their block, by the store, so they gave Jess and Frances their home. Just after their marriage, Jess and Frances added on to the house. They built a bathroom and kitchen on the north side. They still used the old “Majestic” coal and wood stove, but they had one of the first bathrooms in town. Their tub was the kind that stood on legs that were shaped like claws. It is still in the house along with the stove.

Jess worked hard to support his wife and children, which was hard to do with only one hand. Maybe if he had become an accountant and moved to a large city life would have been easier. However, it’s hard to move from the familiarity of your hometown and family. Many men that have left Kanarra for jobs know how hard it is to forget that little town. Jess worked at many different things to support his family.

First, he worked for Bishop Berry, pitching and pulling hay. Then he worked in his father’s store for many years. He and Frances took in boarders. They had the post office in their home and many people would ride in the mail truck from place to place. Sometimes they would stay overnight. President Lorenzo Snow even stayed there one night. Frances also took in washings and Jess and Chester took turns moving the lever back and forth on the old conventional washer.
They raised a garden, had chickens, pigs, dogie lambs and a milk cow. For many years they had a beautiful raspberry patch in the north lot. Jess kept it trimmed and free of weeds. Trimming bushes wasn’t an easy task with one hand, but he managed to use the pruners by putting the left side under his armpit. They sold the raspberries for $2.00 a crate, and sometimes they would pick up to 200 to 300 crates a year. For about six years Jess ran a coal mine on the Kanarra Mountain that he leased from the government. It was located on the north side of the mountain just before you get to the Coal Mine Spring. Dixie people would come up to get coal and trade sorghum and fruit for it. They would camp overnight in the south lot. They would sing and dance and have a real good time.

During Franklin D. Roosevelt’s administration as the U.S. President, he started a self-help program for the poor called the Works Progress Administration (W.P.A.). Jess was made a foreman of it in his area. They built dams and irrigation ditches, and dug outhouses for the government. Jess was also the janitor in the church house for many years. One time while he was cleaning the church, he felt something, or someone, trying to strangle him. He could feel the hands at his neck, yet he couldn’t see or touch anything. He fell to the floor, but because he prayed so fervently, he was released.

Around 1910, Jess homesteaded 160 acres south of the Old Fort Harmony. The Homestead Act passed in 1862 gave a person 160 acres if he lived on the land five years and put in improvements. Jess built a small log cabin there, and would take his wife and children to stay some nights. Later he sold the land to Al Thorley for practically nothing. He was also the mayor of Kanarraville for a few years.

Work and service are important qualities for a person to develop, but a person needs to relax and to socialize. Jess loved to dance, especially a square dance, which they called the Quadrille. He also loved to act in plays. During his teens, 20’s and 30’s, there were many plays put on in Kanarra by the town folk. Some of them were “Josh Winchester,” “Dot the Miner’s Daughter,” “Old Glory,” “Our Jim,” “Star Bright,” and “Dust of the Earth.” He and Frances took many lead parts in them. One play in particular Jess had to be killed. They were using real guns with blanks in them, and when he fell to the floor his little children in the audience thought he was really dead and started crying so hard that they had to stop the play and let Jess show his kids that he was still alive.

Jess and Frances held many parties in their home. They let their children have them and they also had many themselves. They belonged to a club called the “Elite Society.” It was comprised of married couples and they would meet together on a regular basis. One time they had a Halloween costume party for the “Elite Society.” They had a real frightening spook alley set up in the basement. When the people were going through it and stepped on a hidden board, they got really scared because it was like an elevator. They were pulled quickly up through the air and came out a cupboard in the bathroom. All the people really enjoyed the party.
Jess liked to play marbles. This was a very popular game for the grown men. He also liked to sing and listen to music on the radio on their old-time phonograph. He never learned to drive a car but he enjoyed traveling in them, especially to visit Velma and family, and Paul and his family who lived in Boulder City, Nevada.

Jess had developed many fine qualities over the years. He loved children and they loved him. He was very good to his wife and his own children. He didn’t have any enemies and was always good to help others. During the winter of 1919 and 1920 most of the townspeople got a very bad flu but Jess was very lucky and didn’t get it. He went to many homes and helped the people who were stricken with it. His mother died from that flu on February 9, 1920. Jess was always helping his mother. He would take meals to her and do her chores and see that she was okay.
Probably one of the hardest characteristics Jess had to develop was dealing with death. Jess was four years old when his baby sister, Florence, died; six when his sister, Hannah, died; and twelve when his little brother, Ira, died. This must have been very hard for a child to go through and try to understand why it happened. He lost his father, George, in 1914 when he died of a stroke. In 1920 he faced death again when his mother died of the flu. On September 8, 1922, he had to face the death of his oldest son, Lalif. Lalif was almost nineteen and had fallen off a loaded hay wagon. The heavy wooden wheels rolled over his head. Lalif didn’t die instantly but suffered a long time before he passed away.

There are always certain little characteristics that each individual has, and Jess was no exception. Some of these things were unusual. Jess got false teeth in his middle years but never wore them. He kept them in the secretary drawer. He would like to eat pie for breakfast, and loved bread, milk and molasses for supper. He loved to sit in his old wood rocking chair and he called his daughters “my girl.” He was also very scared of high places. All those who knew Jess were very saddened when he passed away on March 27, 1959, at the age of 82, but were relieved that he hadn’t suffered. He had been visiting that morning with company. After they left he got up and went into the bedroom to get some papers, came back and sat in his rocking chair that was in the dining room. Frances was talking with him from the kitchen. She heard him kind of sneeze and then she came into the room and he was dead. Jess was laid to rest in the Kanarraville cemetery on March 30, 1959, and thus ended the life of a very, very special man.

Jess, named after outlaws,
But didn’t do the same.
Jess, was handicapped,
And yet he overcame.
Jess gave of his love,
And was loved by many others.
Jess helped many people,
Especially his dear mother.
Jess worked at many trades,
To try to make a living.
Jess knew of going without,
But still was very giving.
Jess set good examples,
For each of us to see.
May we live with him again,
Through all eternity.

Stuffed Mushrooms

2011-02-14T14:33:00.000-08:00

Whole Mushrooms (about 6 packages)
1 lb. country sausage
Turkey Stuffing mix
8 oz. cream cheese

Brown sausage. Add stuffing mix and the amount of water that the box recommends (do not add butter because of the sausage grease.) Add cream cheese and stir until melted. Spoon mixture into washed and de-stemmed mushrooms. Bake at 350 for 20 minutes.

You're invited to a Family BBQ

2011-01-27T16:36:00.001-08:00

We're having a BBQ.

Date: Saturday, Feb. 12th
Time: 5:30 p.m.
Place: Blake/Scholes residence

Hamburgers and all the fixings- Ron & Debbie, Lucas & Shellie
Hot Dogs and Buns- Josh & Melanie
Appetizers (2 people)- Anisa & Ryan, Logan & Sydney
Salad (2 people)- Liberty, Rosalie & Michael
Chips (2 people)- Shahr & Dustin, Tanner
Drinks (2 people)- Jessica, Cash
Desserts (2 people) - Jeff & Ellen, Thayne & Jenny

Superintendent Award For Excellence

2011-01-24T08:55:00.000-08:00

I opened up Washington County School District's Website and saw this....

Superintendent Award for Excellence

Arrowhead Elementary -- L to R: Jennifer Cloward – Volunteer, Jeff Williams – Custodian, Susan Goodman – Teacher

Way to go Uncle Heff!!!

Pics of Legz

2011-01-03T21:54:00.000-08:00

I am by no means a professional photographer... in fact, I'd really love to take a photography class. But, mom really wanted to have a new pic of Legacy, so I took her out for a photo shoot. (I took Joren out too, but I will post his pics later). What do you think? Are they even close to looking professional? Which one do you like best? I am in the process of trying some things on photoshop to make them look better, but that will take more time on the computer to figure things out! I may post some before and after pics once I figure things out!

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PS... I also had fun making hair clips to match all of her outfits!

Welcome...

2010-12-24T20:40:00.000-08:00

West

7 lbs. 1 oz. 19.5 inches long

Look at his adorable little face!

Shellie had an infection and a fever of 104, so they induced labor. West has fluid in his lungs so he is on an IV and has a tube down his throat. They suspect he may have the infection Shellie had. He is on antibiotics and may be in the hospital for 7-10 days. Pray for his safe recovery.

(P.S. I hope it's okay that I posted this. I just wanted everyone in the family to see his cute face!)

Recipes

2010-12-13T07:17:00.000-08:00

Spinach Artichoke Dip

2 jars (6 oz. each) marinated artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
1 pkg. (10 oz.) Frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry (I actually only used about 1/2 the pkg.)
4 garlic cloves, pressed
1 C. sour cream
1 C. Mayo
1 1/2 C. Parmesan Cheese ( I buy a bag of shredded...not the dry canned stuff)

Prehead oven to 375. Mix all ingredients. Bake for 20-25 minutes.

Ribbon Sandwiches

Ham: Can of Hormel smoked ham mixed with mayo to desired consistency.
Eggs: Hard boil 4 eggs. Smash with fork. Add mayo to desired consistency. Flavor with about 2 tsp. mustard. Then add a couple of shakes of garlic powder, onion powder, salt and pepper. This time I used my spinach and herb seasoning from "Tastefully Simple" but since you can't buy that in stores, it's okay without it.

Twinners!

2010-12-05T15:37:00.001-08:00

Look how cute they look in their matching shirts! I love that Brenner and Sydney get to go to school together:)

This drives me nuts...

2010-11-19T12:29:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I feel like we live in a different world up here in Wyoming. Well are place has these floor heaters, and above ever single one of them is an outlet. Now what drives me crazy is the warning stickers that say "Warning keep electrical cords away from heater".. OK THEN DON'T PUT THE FREAKING OUTLETS ABOVE THE HEATERS. The sad thing is there is plenty of empty wall space they could have put the outlets or could have put the heaters. These heaters do get super hot, legz found out the hard way when we first moved in "poor girl".

Very Bad, No Good, Horrible, Longest Week EVER!

2010-11-17T19:11:00.000-08:00

(This post if for Libby)

It all started Saturday evening when I was getting a hair cut... that I hate.... reminding me that Brenner had to talk in church on Sunday. I stayed up late trying to find a talk for him but fell asleep with my laptop in my lap. Then I woke up early Sunday morning (6:30ish) and got his talk prepared... only to still have to send Ryan to church with the kids because I couldn't pull myself together to get ready for church on time. Then.... the primary got this grand idea to combine classes since the older kids (there are only 4 kids in the class) have a couple as teachers while the younger kids (there are 12 in the class) have only your's truly as their teacher... if we combine then we'll have more adults to help... no... we'll have 16 kids in one room instead of 12 and I'll still have to do all the work!!!

I got to spend all evening Sunday trying to fix (paint over) a banner that some 82 year old man messed up on for the Jubilee of trees... which I had spent about 4 days of all of my extra time on the previous week.

Monday I got to start doing remediation... which is basically where they throw 20 of the worst 8th graders into one room during their lunch period and try to get me to make them do work to pass a class that they failed 1st quarter... that is a whole blog post in itself.

That night we spent the whole evening trying to set up for the Jubilee of Trees. And I still get home late and try to clean the house.... etc. etc.

Tuesday... remediation again.

Tuesday evening we had family pictures... with a hair cut that I hate... and I didn't have time to get my eyebrows waxed... and the hat that I ordered which I based all of our colors off... didn't come in time for the pictures.

Wednesday... is that today? We found out that we may have to pay $20,000 in taxes for a business that we no longer own... (and my husband is unemployed and we are living with my parents). Oh and Joren spilled a huge pitcher of RED crystal lite all over the counter, floor, etc... while we were cleaning up that mess Brenner's soup boiled over on the stove.. I almost swore! then I went in the kids room later that night to discover Terek has colored on the floor with something... I guess I need to go buy some carpet cleaner....seriously, is it only Wednesday???

Let me just say that this is the chaos that we live in and I wouldn't trade it for the world!!! I actually love living with my parents... which I didn't think I would. I love my crazy little boys. Messes give us an excuse to clean things that needed to be cleaned any way! I love my job... aside from remediation (which I am meeting with the principal in the morning to brainstorm some solutions). I miss my kids during the day, but they have their dad and grandma. I've really enjoyed the little help that I have given Rosalie with the Jubilee of trees. This whole business stuff has really humbled us and we are grateful for that. I love living in St. George and I love my family here. I need to make an effort to see more of my family more often.

I love you, Libby... I know times get tough... and it can be hard. This life is a test and it's supposed to be crazy...

-Anisa

Because of this...

2010-09-26T14:56:00.000-07:00

She got this...

PS... it would be nice if people would comment on the family blog:)

Thunder Football & Dixie Round-up

2010-09-19T14:45:00.000-07:00

One of the things we love most about moving back to St. George is getting to see family more. We have loved living in South Jordan and spending our family time with Lucas and Shellie, but it's nice to see more family more often.

On Thursdays we go to Tanner's football games. He is #77. The boys get a little restless sitting on the bleachers watching the game. That night we decided to take them to the Dixie Round-up Rodeo. More sitting on bleachers.

On Saturday afternoon, we got to go to the Dixie Round-up parade. People throwing candy... that the kids like!!!

Tanner is the drum major.
Look at that.... he can march backwards! Good fun!

I'm totally up for driving 8 hours to see cute little Legacy dance as well!

Yard Sale

2010-09-16T14:12:00.000-07:00

Mom and I are having a yard sale Saturday out here in Ivins. If you think there is anything that you would like, you may want to be one of the first ones here!! Also, if you'd like to add anything to the sale, that's fine too!

Also, mom has a few things of Granny's that she wants to give to anyone who may want them.

Reunion

2010-08-11T15:32:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone!!!! There is a Williams Reunion this Sunday, August 15th @ the Cobble Crest in Kanarra!!!! I've talked to Aunt Debbie and got a head count of 10 from her Family, they are wanting a head count for food arrangements. They will supply the main dish and each family brings either a salad or dessert. So if anyone is coming and I have not either talked to you or your parents please let us know if you will be attending!!! I hope all can make it!! Oh and it is @ 5:30 p.m. I'm pretty sure! Love to all :)

How is Jeremy Doing?

2010-08-03T14:33:00.000-07:00

Uncle Heff and Aunt Ellen just went to Salt Lake, and were able to stop and see cousin Jeremy. They said that he is doing really well, and has a very optimistic outlook on his brain tumor. And yes, he has a brain tumor. He is not completely blind, but is having trouble seeing, and is seeing double of everything. The doctors think that his treatments are helping and they are looking hopeful to completely get the tumor. He really appreciates the prayers that are going out, and would really appreciate visits from those in the area, or visiting. (MYSELF INCLUDED!) Just wanted to post a brief update, this is all coming from my dad, so that's as good as it's going to get.

Let's keep Jeremy in our prayers, and as always, the rest of our family who are also struggling health wise.

Ron's and Debbie's House

2010-08-01T21:39:00.000-07:00

Just thought I'd post a pic of Mom's and Dad's new house. It's coming along nicely... but not quickly!!!

Trace's " Not So Exciting Day"

2010-07-06T11:40:00.000-07:00

So we're up at Primary Children's Hospital today for Trace's surgery on his kidneys. We came up to Salt Lake last night so we could come to PCH this morning. It is my first time leaving Peyton (other than when I had to leave her in the NICU) and a first time surgery for Trace so its becoming a new experience for all of us:) His surgery started at 11:00 a.m. this morning and could go from anywhere from 3-5 hours. Little stinker didn't even care that he was leaving us when the doctors wheeled him away, he's a tough little cookie. We'll keep updates on how he is doing, he'll be up here for about a week, so maybe I'll get caught up on some long needed posts!

A Tribute To Logan...

2010-07-05T20:44:00.000-07:00

We are Family, and We are FOREVER

2010-06-25T18:40:00.000-07:00

There has been a lot going on in our (extended) family. There has been illness, job changes, movings, trials, disappointments, addictions, and pregnancy's/new additions. With that said, I hope that we can pray for each other, and support each other during these hard times. We need to have specific prayers going out for our family.

Right now our cousin Jeremy has recently been diagnosed with a brain tumor. He has started treatments with high hopes that he can pull through. (Aunt) Ellen will be having a knee surgery the first of July. Trace will also be having surgery on his kidneys in a few weeks. And, Aunt Debbie is continually trying to battle her cancer.

Some of us may not always get along, or like what other family members are doing, but we are eternal and stuck together. We all are doing separate things and living our own lives, but there is always a few moments everyday that we can stop and ask our Heavenly Father to take care of our Family. We are so blessed to have stayed so strong as a family, and I'm positive that Papa and Granny look down on us so pleased. Granny's wish was that we stuck together, and I feel we are doing pretty good at. Let us take some time to remember those family members in need at this time.

Hanky Mouse... YouTube Video

2010-05-15T21:44:00.000-07:00

Mom has a bucket list... I need to find out what else is on her list.

She wanted to video how to make a mouse out of a handkerchief. I remember Granny making these for us at church. It's kind of a fun thing to know that we don't want to lose.

Does anyone have anything else to add to Mom's bucket list?

We made this video... and it's not fancy because Libby hasn't taught me how to use Imovie yet. Anyway, now Mom is as famous as Brenner. Enjoy!!!

Presley Nicole Luke :)

2010-05-02T11:44:00.000-07:00

My beautiful niece was born a 6:04 AM on april 26 2010
She is probably oneof the five cutest little babies I have ever seen. she was 8 pounds 5 ounces.

So far she is very good and doesn't cry alot(but still quite a bit).

Vacuum Challenge

2010-04-17T20:49:00.000-07:00

It's fun having clean freak Shellie staying with us... if she gets bored, watch out!!!

She was making fun of us for having a vacuum with a bag in it! She said it's super old... I think we may have bought it when we bought our last house about 9 years ago! Just because she's a freak and buys a new vacuum every couple of years!!! So, Ryan and Shellie decided to compare our old Hoover to her Shark.

Ryan vacuumed Brenner's and Joren's room with our vacuum.
Then Shellie vacuumed over the room with her Shark.
If you look in the garbage you will see all of the lint and dead skin cells that our vacuum did not pick up! So, basically our vacuum seems to get the stuff on the surface that you can see, but Shellie's shark digs down deep and gets the gunk.... to think of 2 years worth of dead skin cells:)
So, maybe some day I'll get a new vacuum. But for now, I'll just have Shellie vacuum my whole house with her vacuum, then I can wait two more years for all the dead skin to accumulate and then I'll buy a new vacuum... and for the record, I'm sure my vacuum was cheap in the first place.

Wyoming.... here they come!!!

2010-04-11T22:37:00.000-07:00

As I'm sure you've all heard, Lucas got a job in Wyoming... Rock Springs! I have to say a couple of things about my little brother and his amazing wife! First, I am so proud of them. He lost his job and immediately went looking for a new job. He was willing to move out of state.... a lot of people aren't willing to do that. He found a job that he loves. It pays well and Shellie will be able to stay home with Legz and get a part time job. Hopefully they will be able to have another baby soon:). Lucas has been working for a few weeks now. But they had to be out of their house down here this week. So, this weekend, Ryan and I helped them move. This is their cute new apartment. With a little of Shellie's touch, it will be super cute and fun for them.

Legz didn't want to be in the picture, but then changed her mind.
I have been crying all weekend! This will be such a great experience for them and a new adventure. But I am going to miss them soooooo much! They are only 3 hours away and I know we'll see them often, but it was so hard to see them pack up their home that they love and move to a strange place. Shellie is my best friend and Legacy is just one of my kids. Joren and Legacy area best friends and it will be so hard for them to not see each other as much. And I have always felt like a mom to Lucas, so it will be hard to not see them as much. But I know we'll stay in touch and we'll visit them as often as we can... and I'm sure they'll be down often because there isn't even a Target in Rock Springs.

Shellie is staying with us for a couple of weeks while she trains the new girl at work then she's vacationing in St. George before she heads up to live with Lucas. Wish them luck in their new adventures!!!

PS... just had to include this pic of the boys all cuddled up in bed together. We stayed in a hotel last night and I actually ended up in bed with all 3 of them while Ryan got the whole other bed to himself... I'm not sure how we all fit in this one bed!

A Libby in the Making

2010-04-01T10:02:00.000-07:00

I downloaded the pics on my camera yesterday and found these.......

No wonder he's Libby's Favorite:)

-Anisa

Peyton's Baby Blessing

2010-02-25T20:02:00.000-08:00

We are hopefully going to be able to bless Peyton on the 7th of March. I know this doesn't give a lot of time for most of you, but if you would like to come we would love you all to be there. I take her to the doctor on the third and if he doesn't put a hold on it we will definitely do it then. Our church starts at 10:30 and we will probably be doing a luncheon afterwards either at our house, but most likely at the town hall for more room!

Memory Lane Slide Show

2010-01-24T12:39:00.000-08:00

Sydney and I have been scanning Mom's old slides on to the computer we thought we would share some of the highlights.The old farm
(if you look really close you can see the future St George Ford)

Isn't She Beautiful

New House
(notice the baby trees)

The Dixie Rock
(where's the road?)

Dad's Bike
("I get 80 miles to the gallon on this hog")

Mom in some cool Clothes
("Where's the disco?")

Happy 32!

2010-01-18T10:06:00.000-08:00

Happy happy birthday Anisa dear. Happy days will come to you all year! If I had a wish that it could be...a HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU FROM ME!!! Now just picture me singing that to you, or don't, we all know that's scary. Happy 32nd Birthday!

Come along way since this huh?

Libby and FLO!

2009-10-21T19:34:00.001-07:00

The progressive lady "FLO" reminds me of Libby!!

Posted by shellie!

Peyton Made it Home

2009-10-08T14:18:00.001-07:00

Little itty bitty Peyton made it home last Thursday, and has been doing great! I even got to finally hold her. She's so tiny and precious. The York's can have visitors, but they just ask that if you are sick with any kind of illness then please don't come over until you are all better. I have a slight sore throat coming on, so that means I'm not allowed over. Bummer. Also, Summer can't leave her house unless she is going to the doctor for six months, SIX months. I'm sure she would love some phone calls because I can imagine she's going to go stir crazy!!!

One last thing...You know how I like to talk about poop - keep Peyton in your prayers that she has a BM - bowel movement. That's what Summer has asked me to pray for.

As for big brother Trace, he is finally warming up to her, and as far as I know has only hit her once the day they brought her home. Guess that's a jealous older brother for ya! ;)

This is Peyton saying, "Libby. No more pictures please."

Pray for Summer and their Baby

2009-08-24T17:30:00.000-07:00

Summer was rushed in ambulance from the Cedar City Hospital last night around midnight to St. George's Hospital. She's had really high blood pressure and has been monitored the last two weeks, but as of last night her blood pressure was extremely high. The baby still hasn't developed fully for her to give birth, so they are keeping her in the hospital until the lungs of her baby have developed. After they are developed they can have her give birth, however the baby will be a preemie.

I hope we can use this blog as a way to put the prayers out there for her and the baby. She will be in St. George, as of now a couple of weeks, and I'm sure she would love visitors. Please pray for her and the rest of our extended family.

Also, Summer does have her cell phone, and you can reach her on that.

A 2nd Opinion

2009-08-03T15:44:00.000-07:00

I took mom to her doctor today up here at the Utah Cancer Specialists. It was a lengthy appt with a lot of sitting around, but after looking at all of her paperwork from her previous doctor, he said...... let's have you take a break from chemo! I think that was just what she wanted to hear. He said that the chemo she has been doing worked quite well and has stopped the growth of cancer, but at this point it can't do much more for her. He wants her to take a break, go in for monthly testing and as soon as the blood tests show the cancer growing again, he is going to put her on an ORAL form of medication called Tarceva, that she only has to take once a day. It won't make her as sick or as tired and the only side effect is a rash similar to acne (which can be treated with creams). This oral medicine can give her up to four more years of life (that's the bummer part, but we already knew this cancer wasn't curable).

So, let's wish her a speedy recovery and a long time of being able to do what she wants before this cancer starts coming back!!! And KEEP PRAYING FOR HER!!!!

-Anisa

Just to let you know...

2009-07-29T06:30:00.000-07:00

Most of you probably already know this but I just wanted to let you know that I've had mom move in with me for awhile. We're hoping to get her a better doctor and some better care up here in salt lake. you can get ahold of her on her cell phone.

-anisa

Oquirrh Mountain Utah Temple

2009-07-26T14:15:00.000-07:00

Sorry this is so late, I've been busy but here are some pictures of when Libby and I (Jessie) went up to Salt Lake and were able to go to the Oquirrh Mountain Temple Open House. We thank Anisa for getting us the tickets to go through. It is a beautiful temple, but really is there an ugly temple? I think not. Libby, Anisa, Logan, Sydney, and I were able to go through and enjoy the beauty and spirit in the temple. I can't wait to be able to go through more temples and see the beauty in all of them. It was really busy but a great experience.

Shellie's twist on Cucumber and onions

2009-06-28T13:20:00.000-07:00

2 Tomatoes

2 Cucumbers

2 Tbs fine diced onion

1/2 tsp minced garlic

3 Tbs olive oil

1 Tbs vinegar

1 freshly squeezed lemon

salt & pepper to taste

Mix all ingredients together.

Writen by Lucas

Flint's High School Graduation!

2009-06-26T21:49:00.000-07:00

On Thursday June 25, 2009 Flint Jeffrey Williams graduated from High School! We just wanted to let Flint know how proud we are of him and to let the rest of the family see Flint on his special day. He is so excited to have accomplished this and we are all so proud of him. So next time you see or talk to Flint, congratulate him on his great accomplishment!

Going Private!

2009-06-15T18:11:00.000-07:00

Sorry everyone but do to some things going on I have decided to go private. Please e-mail or call me and I can add you to my blog. For some reason I don't have alot of e-mails, so don't get offended that I have not added you. It will take me a few days to add even people I have e-mails for so just be patient. I am also no longer on facebook.

Shellie

Congratulations Natisha!!!

2009-06-13T20:48:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Natisha (Josh's daughter) for winning Miss Deaf Utah!!!

Isn't she gorgeous!!!!

Oquirrh Mountain Temple

2009-06-07T21:30:00.000-07:00

I would like to personally invite any and all of you to come up to the open house of the Oquirrh Mountain Temple (which is just down the street from me). The open house runs from June - August. I have reservations for 10 people for July 11th at 1:30, but I can get more reservations any other time or you can make your own reservations here. Anyone is welcome to stay at my home. I have a guest bedroom, couches and air mattresses. It would be a lot of fun!!!

-Anisa

Food Assignments/Menu

2009-06-03T20:52:00.000-07:00

BBQ Beef- Ron

Buns- Libby

Corn Dogs- Aunt Rosalie

Dutch Oven Potatoes- Lucas

Green Salad- Aunt Ellen

Dessert- Logan & Sydney

Drinks- Cash, Summer & Klint

Paper Products... and anything else my heart desires- Anisa

I've tried to call most everyone and there are a few people I still can't get ahold of. I'll keep trying tomorrow.

Anisa

Family BBQ

2009-05-28T21:10:00.000-07:00

Hey folks, we must just love our family....

We would like to have a family BBQ on Saturday June 13th at 6:00 in my parent's back yard. (It's the day before my mom's b-day). We'll do it in the evening sometime. Leave a comment and let me know if you can attend and I'll put out the food assignments.

anisa

Debbie

2009-05-15T06:38:00.000-07:00

Libby got mad at me because I didn't update the family blog.

Mom had another PET scan. It looks pretty favorable. There are two specific tumors that aren't shrinking much, but they are also not growing. So, they're still planning on doing a couple more chemos. Keep her in your prayers.

-Anisa

Libby and Shellie saw Celebrities!!

2009-04-17T20:49:00.001-07:00

While Libby and Shellie were picking up their stuff for the Salt Lake Half-Marathon they got to meet some celebrities. For all of you The Biggest Loser fans that know who these guys are here is a picture to prove that Libby and Shellie met them.

Happy Keester

2009-04-12T12:56:00.000-07:00

BBQ Time!!!

2009-03-12T13:17:00.000-07:00

Now WHAT DO I HAVE TO DO TO GET EVERY ONE'S ATTENTION ABOUT A FAMILY BBQ? Do I have to send out invitations - which cost money and time...which I don't have. Do I have to make individual phone calls? What? What do I need to do to get us all together? As for now, I will try to do the blog thing. But most likely it will end up being a phone call. The plan is FRIDAY, April 3, 2009. I know, I know. I would love to do it on a Saturday but here is the thing - Aaron and Kim are going to be out here that week, BUT they leave Saturday morning...so if you want to give me any guff - take it up with Aaron and Kim! Now, who wants to bring what? I'll figure out a list of things and when I make my phone calls - which will probably be this Sunday before I leave for Florida, please make a note of what you are bringing and mark your calendar. OH YEAH - Gosh, the time, the time. Since it is a Friday and most people (like MYSELF) work we are going to try to aim for around 4-5:00p.m. ISH. I know this is going to be kind of difficult, but can we please try to make it work. Who knows when we'll all get to be in the same place at the same time again.

P.S. This shindig is going down at Cash's place in Kanarraville - good middle meeting spot! See ya then!

I smell like Papa

2009-03-06T22:03:00.000-08:00

What smell comes to mind when you think of Papa?

You guessed it!!! Listerine.

My dentist threatened me that I would have 3 cavities next time I come in if I didn't floss and use mouth wash. I'm too lazy to floss, so I figured I would at least use the little samples of Listerine that he gave me. Now I smell like Papa!!!

It's Time...

2009-02-15T20:52:00.000-08:00

It's time again for us Williams Clan to begin planning a BBQ! This is the plan for now; I know that Aaron and Kim will be here the end of March first of April. I think they leave April 4th. If that be the case than I was wondering if we could do a BBQ for that Friday, April 3, 2009. This is still months away, but I figured we should get planning it now. Yes, Cash is happy to have the shindig at his place. Let us know what time on that Friday will work. Hopefully we can get everyone together. Let's make it work!

Also, we are in hopes that we can have a big 4th of July BBQ at Cash's place as well. However, that is a lot further away than April. Stay tuned, and we'll plan the 4th of July activities!

Update on Debbie

2009-01-15T19:12:00.000-08:00

Please keep mom in your prayers, put her name on the prayer roll, fast for her, etc, She had a PET scan yesterday and the tumors are not shrinking much. Her blood looks okay, but the tumors themselves are still there. They are going to try a new formula of Chemo, but otherwise things aren't looking good. Keep praying for her!!!

Jazz Game Anyone???

2009-01-12T20:10:00.000-08:00

I was thinking we should all get together and go to a Jazz game? Who's "game" for that? Wouldn't it be totally fun for all us southern folk to come up to SLC on some weekend and meet up with you northern folk and go to one of the BIG games? Leave a comment and then we'll get this "ball" rolling!!! Or shooting!!! Let's support our state basketball and hang out as a fam!!!

Flint Eats Snow!

2008-12-19T20:21:00.000-08:00

Flint wanted to go sledding down the hill by our house so we did. Hope his face doesn't hurt!

Tanner's Band Concert

2008-12-10T19:25:00.000-08:00

Logan and I were privileged enough to recieve an invite to Tanner's Band Concert that was this evening. We thought we would post some pictures for those of you who couldn't make it.

This is Tanner being "Jazzy" for a "Jazzy Number".

And finally Tanner and Melanie

Good news

2008-12-10T08:19:00.000-08:00

Mom's cancer is in remission!!!

She is scheduled to have Chemo the Monday before Christmas, but they may not do that one because the chemo is taking it's toll on her body. Keep praying for her!!!

Do your hands fall asleep

2008-11-30T06:58:00.000-08:00

Libby and I were also talking about how our hands fall asleep at night. (I'm thinking about this because my hand is falling asleep typing this). It's totally a genetic thing and I think we got it from Papa. I want to know who in the family has this same problem. I put a Poll at the side. Please don't vote if you're not genetically related to Papa (sorry In-laws). Leave a comment so we know who voted.

Creamy Jello

2008-11-30T06:50:00.000-08:00

1 3.4 oz. pkg. Jello (granny's was always pink... raspberry, cherry or strawberry?)
1 C. boiling water
1 8 oz. cool whip

Boil water. Dissolve jello in water. Stir in cool whip. Refrigerate until set.

(Libby and I were talking about how fun it would be to gather all of granny's recipes and make a recipe book out of them. I think I have a lot of them and there is a yellow cookbook out there that a lot of our parents have that has a lot of them. But Granny didn't have recipes for a lot of things that she made either. So, I thought that the blog would be a great place to keep these recipes and then maybe for Christmas NEXT year, I will make everyone a recipe book. On the side bar I have posted some of the recipes that I could think of. I will try to cook these and measure what I put in them so that I can write down the recipes. Please post a comment of recipes that you would like to have in the book. Or add them to the side bar.)

We love Libby

2008-11-26T08:08:00.000-08:00

We were fortunate enough to have Libby come and stay with us for about 4 days. It was so nice to have her here. I loved having adult conversation during the day. It was fun to have someone to go shopping with. The boys loved her. Yesterday, I told Joren that Sam (our neighbor) was going to baby sit. He said, "no, I want Libby to baby sit." You're welcome to stay any time!!!

Jubilee

2008-11-21T12:41:00.000-08:00

Sydney has Wanted me to take her to the Jubilee of trees since forever. so I had the day off and we went and walked around. I thought I would share with all of you the one picture I took with my phone of Rosalie and Tom Scholes' Tree.

Prayers

2008-11-18T17:03:00.000-08:00

Right now is a good time for us to be mindful of our family in our prayers.

Today Uncle Michael went in for surgery for his prostate cancer. Pray for him.

Aunt Debbie is hanging in there. She is still scheduled for Chemo up until the Monday before Christmas. Pray for her.

We love everyone in this family and want to make sure they are well.

Smarties

2008-11-16T14:41:00.000-08:00

We got to baby sit Legacy on Friday night. She is such a cutie and we love having her around. We got out the last of the Halloween candy and dumped it all out on the counter so we could go through it. She immediately grabbed all of the smarties... I guess she likes smarties. It was so cute to watch her. She didn't grab any other kind of candy. A couple of other cute things she did. We were looking at an animal book and she would "tickle" the animals and say, "tickle." She's starting to talk a lot more and it's really cute. She was constantly trying to climb up on our counter (Shellie would have been mad). And she loves our Elmo chicken. As soon as she saw him, she said, "Elmo" very clearly. Thanks for letting us baby sit, you should do it more often.

Thriller, was Thrilling

2008-11-15T01:16:00.001-08:00

Halloween with the Williams clan means a night at the show, Thriller at Tuachan. The best part is when Cash gets startled by one of the "walking dead". He tries his hardest to avoid them, but they always seem to find him!

Planetarium

2008-10-22T17:37:00.000-07:00

Shellie had Columbus Day off last Monday, so I dragged her and Legacy to the Gateway to go to the Planetarium with us. It's not a terribly exciting place, but the kids love to walk around on Mars and the Moon.

It was just fun to be able to do something with Shellie and Legacy. I wish Shellie didn't have to work so we could play more often!

Growing so Fast - what cuties!

2008-10-20T18:55:00.001-07:00

Couldn't you warn me that you're taking a picture???
Who ya calling there???
I could never get them to look at the same time darnit! But what dolls!

Terek's Blessing

2008-10-07T14:17:00.000-07:00

Thanks to everyone who came to Terek's blessing. It was good to see you and it was nice to have so much support from everyone!!! Thanks to everyone for keeping Mom in your prayers. And thanks for all the help that you have given to her. We have such a great family and we love all of you very much!!!
Love, Anisa

Shellie's Video

2008-10-07T08:37:00.000-07:00

She Did It!

2008-10-04T12:12:00.001-07:00

Hey Shellie ran the St. George Marathon in just over 5 hours.
She did awesome it rained on her the whole time. Go figure, rain in St. George, we're proud of her.
Way to go Shellie!

You're Invited...

2008-09-26T10:14:00.000-07:00

What's the Latest?

2008-09-18T21:47:00.000-07:00

I finally talked to my Mom on the phone; since it's been about two weeks, but she said that Aunt Debbie is doing really GOOD! She said that Dad took her to one of her treatments and that the Dr. said she is doing really well. What's the latest? Aunt Debbie, I am thinking of you constantly and you are in my prayers twice a day! Also, every time I go to the Temple I have been putting your name on the prayer roll. You are going to beat this! I just know it! However, do let us know what the latest is, at least for us who are far away at the moment??? Love you Aunt Debbie!

Terek's Blessing

2008-08-31T13:53:00.001-07:00

Nothing is set in stone yet, but we are planning Terek's baby blessing for Conference weekend in Santa Clara somewhere. There won't be church, but we will probably have it in a church. You are all invited, so mark your calendars. We'll let you know more details when we get them all hashed out!

Shellie will be running the St. George marathon that Saturday so come and cheer her on!

Ron & Debbie

2008-08-31T13:50:00.001-07:00

Mom's hair is starting to fall out and it's making a mess everywhere. So Dad and Mom decided to shave their heads (does Dad look any different?) Hopefully mom isn't mad at me for posting this picture:)

For Grandma...

2008-08-11T17:36:00.001-07:00

So yesterday we had Sunday Dinner at our home. First, the kids stripped down well let me re-phrase the only ones running around naked where the two wild ones Joren and Legz (Brenner is so modest he wore his swim shorts). Then Lucas sprayed them with the hose while they ran back and forth across the yard. We were trying to clean Joren and Legz off cause the had sand in there butt cracks. So after they were done with the water, we put diapers on the 2 crazy naked ones. Then Brenner, Joren, and Legz , played in the sandbox so sweetly.

Dinner Tonight

2008-08-07T15:12:00.000-07:00

Brenner, Joren and I went to see if the farmer's market was open yet. It was... but they didn't have a lot of vegetables yet. They had zucchini, summer squash, green beans and corn. So, we decided to get most of everything for dinner tonight. If I could have the perfect meal, it would be all of my favorite vegetable dishes that granny used to make... all in one meal. And at the end of summer in Kanarraville, we usually did have all of these dishes in one meal.

Corn on the cob. (We got some for dinner)

Summer squash sauted in a lot of butter with onions. (I got some for dinner, although I will probably be the only one eating it.)

Tomatoes- either on a BLT or peeled and sliced and served with mayo, salt and pepper.

Cucumbers- either peeled and sliced into wedges dipped in homemade ranch dressing or peeled and sliced in a dish with sliced onions and salt (the later is totally what I would prefer)

Green Beans- Either the soup with bacon. Or the soup with ham, onion, and red potatoes (I am making this for dinner)

Kohlrabi- I like it raw, peeled and sliced with salt. But I do remember Granny making it cooked in a cream sauce for Papa (also good).

Last but not least, is the delicious peas with new potatoes in a cream sauce.

I wish I could have all of these in one meal, but we'll settle for the few yummy veggies that we are having tonight!

Leave a comment and tell me which dish of Granny's is your favorite or add to what I forgot. (And those of you who live close enough to eat Uncle Michael's and Aunt Rosalie's yummy garden, don't make me jealous)

The Camera

2008-08-06T19:48:00.000-07:00

Let me tell you a story about my camera. Spring break 07 in Florida I decided I needed a camera. we find a Best Buy they have this sweet camera on display that's waterproof I think how awesome a waterproof digital camera that's the one I want.

The camera has been great it has surived the swiming on the beaches of Florida, the snorkling in the reefs of the keys, multiple rafting trips on the wild rivers of Utah, and Sydney's fish bowl. But a blow up above the ground pool in Monroe, Utah was it's undoing. When I placed it in the water and saw bubbles rise from the lens cover I knew something had gone wrong. It wouldn't turn on and there was water in with the battery. We let it dry out and it would turn on but the pictures were cloudy.

To make a long Libby story short we took it to Best Buy and luckly I had the reciept, because they couldn't find record of my warranty on thier system. They sent my camera away and i hope it gets replaced by the 9th of this month. Moral of the story: warranties are good if you're going to use the product in hazardous places like Kristy's pool. -Logan

This little Girl is a Nut!

2008-07-23T07:38:00.000-07:00

Lucas and Shellie's basement flooded yesterday. I went over to baby sit Legz. I tried watching her in their house but all she wanted to do was go into the flooded basement. I locked all of us in her bedroom, but then I just started sweating to death. So, we went to Carl's Jr. for a shake and fries, then to the arcade. She loved running around and trying to play the games with my boys. Brenner kept getting irritated with her because she kept taking his balls when he was playing skeeball. She loved this spiderman ride. I tried to get her off of it and she would just kick her legs at me. This girl gives me a run for her money. She's as crazy as my boys ever thought of being. Good luck with her Lucas & Shellie!

Debbie Update

2008-07-19T14:17:00.000-07:00

Mom had her biopsy last week. She does have a tumor in her lower back. She will need to have 10 treatments of radiation and then chemotherapy. The type of cancer that she has must have come from somewhere else. She will have a PET scan on Tuesday to find out where it came from. We will keep everyone updated as much as possible.

Debbie!

2008-07-15T09:32:00.001-07:00

Debbie/Mom had an MRI last week and the doctor called and said she had a growth on her back. The doctor is setting up an appointment so they can verify what it is. I am posting this to tell her how much we all love her and we need to show our support. She has supported everyone in this family through all are hard times and we need to do the same thing for her. Debbie/Mom we love you and you are our "ANGEL"!!!

Lucas & Shell

Miracles Do Happen!!!

2008-07-11T19:05:00.000-07:00

So just to prove to everyone that miracles really do happen here are some pictures of my family getting onto the plane and on the plane. I should have taken a picture of my dad getting wanded because of his hip, it was quite entertaining. We had to go through security twice yesterday since we had an eight hour layover in Seattle. We went to Pike's Fish Market and The Seattle Aquarium. We rode a bus to get to Seattle and we accidentally got on the wrong bus at first and took about an hour detour before we finally got to downtown Seattle. Today we mainly just drove around Anchorage with Sabrina Wilson. We went to a fir shop and a chocolate factory. We won't be seeing Libby until Sunday.

Superheros

2008-07-07T13:57:00.000-07:00

I got the fun opportunity to baby sit Legacy for a day and a half. She loved playing with Brenner and Joren and wanted to do everything that they did. I thought this was so cute when they all dressed up like super heroes. She brought the costume to me to put on her. She did not like the masks that went with the costumes.... especially the batman mask. Whenever Brenner or Joren wore it, she would get all clingy and nervous! This little girl gave me a run for my money. She's very active and gets into everything. I didn't realize how much easier Brenner and Joren had gotten as they got older. We had tons of fun and now I know why no one takes pictures of their third child (you just don't have time to get the camera out!)

The Race!!!

2008-07-05T15:16:00.000-07:00

On the 4th there was Kanarraville races, and since Trace and Legacy are the same age they got to race together. Look trace takes off and is running to win this race.. You can see Legacy in the backgound...
....She just walks around with her head in the clouds oblivious that there is even a race going on!

4th of July BBQ!!!

2008-07-05T15:01:00.000-07:00

Here are some more Photos of the 4th of July BBQ we had at cash's House. The food was really yummy, and there was just too much. I think we all gained a couple pounds thanks to all the yummy desserts/food. Aunt Ellens "better than sex cake", Blueberry Dump Cake, and Thayne and Jenny's layer dessert. Not to mention the yummy Salad, Homemade Rolls, Dutch Oven Potatoes and Ribs, and the always good vegetable tray, and the many drinks. Thanks to everyone who brought something and participated in this great BBQ!

The family sitting around chatting.
I had to post this picture of Summer and Klint cleaning up Trace after the Dog "Pooh" accident.

These two are not good together, all Legacy did was follow trace around because trace knew how to get into everything. It was very funny to watch.

Thanks to our easy going host Cash who always lets us come and trash his house.

Your the best.

Jenny's Surgery

2008-06-27T14:28:00.000-07:00

Jenny had to have her appendix taken out last night. Thayne says she is a home now and doing well. Let's all keep her in our prayers and hope she has a speedy recovery.

Aunt Debbie

Best Buds!

2008-06-26T10:56:00.000-07:00

Legacy loves Brenner. She'll go any where with him. She loved the jeep so much and would just chill in there. She liked it so much that she'd even go for rides with Joren (I wouldn't get in that jeep with him... he's a crazy driver!)
Mostly I just wanted to not have Cash's naughty pics on the top of the blog. Enjoy!

For the Ladies (Isn't He Wonderful?)

2008-06-18T13:18:00.000-07:00

This year on our rafting trip we were told that were to be no bare butt pictures. Jessie was a little upset about not having a good enough tan line for the picture anyway. In order to keep up with the tradition of upsetting the parents, Cash involuntarily volunteered to pose for inappropriate pictures. This one was Mark's idea, because Cash loves to get his groove on.

The other one Cash was posing for Sydney and said, "You better take a picture Sydney, it'll last longer."

A Celebrity in our Midst

2008-06-18T13:11:00.000-07:00

On our most recent river rafting trip we had a celebrity guest, Axl Rose.

If you don't see the resemblence here is a close up.

For those of you who don't know who Axl Rose is he is the lead singer of the famous rock band Guns N Roses. It was a real treat this year to have such a guest with us. Welcome to the Jungle!