Norton Clan

A bump in the road

2011-09-03T21:06:00.001-04:00

We had a little scare earlier this week. On Monday night, around 10:30PM I coughed up a little bit of blood. I had tomato soup for supper, so I thought it might be that. I called for Eddie & he said he thought it was blood, but then he's color blind so he wasn't sure. I was feeling fine so I went back to bed. About 15 minutes later, I had pain in my stomach, headed for the bathroom, and this time I knew it was blood. I had been diagnosed with Esophagial (?) Varices recently, but thought we had everything contolled by medication. I don't know why they start bleeding, but evidently I was bleeding from three of them. They were going to admit me & do an endoscopy in the morning, but all the sudden everything changed. I was losing a lot of blood, so nothing could wait. I was given two units of blood & taken to the ICU for the procedure. Thanks to my wonderful husband, he actually took a picture of me when everything was done & they let him come in. I woke up with my arms tied to the bed (which promptly made me mad).

Here I am in all my glory!
This is for you mom. Eddie thought you needed to see me.

After a while, they removed the tubes. I spent almost the entire day in the ICU & that evening let me move to a regular room. I don't know what they were waiting for, but they would only let me eat ice chips & Italian Ice until Thursday at lunch. I have to go back in 4 weeks for another scope so they can make sure everything is OK.

Right before leaving the ICU.

Thanks to Bishop Finlayson & Brother Jarrod for coming in & giving me a blessing. I never really thought about dying, but I sure had a wake up call. I need to follow the diabetic diet a little better & try to reduce stress. (No pepsi for almost a week now.) Thanks to all my docs (Brian, Clay, Martha, Tom, Martin, Paul, Milap, Projwal, Joe & Fahad for checking in on me. Special thanks to Koren for being there for me.

Thanks everyone for your thoughts & prayers. We will have a struggle ahead, but we plan to work on our lifestyle together. I love all of you & will try my best not to scare everyone anymore.

Our Newest Addition (Grandchild #6)

2011-08-06T18:29:00.000-04:00

Emerson John O'Leary

Born August 2, 2011 @ 10:28 PM

Lebanon, Grafton County, New Hampshire

Proud Parents: Michael & Amber

(to be continued with more pictures soon)

Happy Mother's Day Mom. I love you!!!

2011-05-08T15:55:00.000-04:00

Just a little update :)

2011-04-17T18:23:00.000-04:00

Eddie reminded me yesterday that I have not updated our blog in a while, so I decided I'd better get everyone caught up on what going on here in the northeast. The weather is starting to warm up & that makes things a lot easier.

Chris & Cassie, along with 3 of my grandkids, moved to Georgia the end of March. Chris had a job opportunity which will benefit them in the long run, but we miss them sooooo much! I thought life would return to normal with just Eddie & I, but it was really nice having them around all the time. Eddie is having a harder time that I am at this point, but hopefully he'll start working more hours & keep his mind off things. Anyway, that gave us an opportunity to move to a smaller place. We have actually moved to New Hampshire (about a mile from DHMC). It's a great commute. It take me longer to park & wait for the bus, than it does to drive to work now. Hopefully when it gets warmer I'll start walking. We are still using our PO Box for our mail, so you can send letters & packages anytime.

Speaking of work, beginning April 2, DHMC switched it's medical record system to EPIC. They are actually calling it eD-H. It's been a rough couple of months, but things are (hopefully) going to get better in a few weeks. Being the only secretary for 11 nephrologists equals a lot of work. However, I really enjoy my work & they keep telling me that we'll be able to hire a 2nd secretary soon (but, they've been saying that for the last two years).

Eddie & I would really like to go visit Frances & Danny in New York. He keeps checking prices for Amtrak, so soon Frances will get a call & let her know that we are coming. Does anyone have her phone number?

I'll get pictures of our new place soon, but if anyone wants to come see New England in person, we'll be happy to accommodate you.

We love & miss everyone back home. See ya soon.

Congratulations Amber & Michael

2011-02-05T13:14:00.000-05:00

Amber & Michael are expecting their first child in August. We're excited for them. This will be grandchild #6 for Eddie & I. We can't wait to meet the new little.

We love you Amber & Michael.

Ajax Jonsippi Smith Has Arrived

2010-12-31T20:45:00.000-05:00

Born December 30, 2010 @ 10:26 PM

Weighing 8 lbs 10.5 oz; 21 1/2 inches long

Isn't he a cutie!!

We're all glad he is finally here & mother & baby are doing fine.

Congratulations Aaron, Alissa & sister Amelia.

Introducing

2010-10-18T18:04:00.004-04:00

Katilena Rose Cushing

Born: 10/16/2010 2:34 AM

Weight: 8 lbs 15.8 ozs

Height: 20.5 inches long

We're sure glad she's finally here.

Trainer in Training?

2010-09-14T11:48:00.011-04:00

Becka in the spotlight - the big screen at the Sea World Shamu Show.

Becka & I have been visiting Disneyland & California Adventure for a few days now. I decided that it would be nice to take a day trip to Sea World. We had a great time. And by the way, we were walking to the Shamu Stadium to watch the show & were stopped. Becka was asked if she wanted to be a "Trainer In Training" at the Shamu Show. She got all excited. She only had to say one thing, which was "Shamu". While I read & signed the consent Becka was learning the hand signals to give to Baby Shamu.

Becka & her trainer Robbin.

Baby Shamu is looking right at me.

This will be an experience she will remember for a long time. We had lots of fun at Sea World. She even got brave enough to feed the seals the fish (she actually didn't want to tough the fish).

Where does the time go?

2010-08-25T12:16:00.003-04:00

We have had a busy time since the last blog. At the end of June, our dear friends from across the street (The VanBibbers) moved back to Utah after finishing their fellowship program here at DHMC. Kobie & Kale really miss having 5 girls to play with. We wish them the best.

In July, Cassie started having a few complications with her pregnancy. She ended up being admitted (which was suppose to be for 1 week) on July 26th. She really didn't want to stay, so she talked her doctors into letting her go home that Thursday (July 29th). She was very happy to be home until Saturday morning! Chris came & woke Eddie & I up stating that Cassie was having severe pain & he was taking her to the hospital. Of course, Cassie's refusing to go, but after a call to the doctor, she went. She found out that she had a kidney stone. She had to stay there until Sunday afternoon until the pain went away. They told her she probably would not pass the stone until she delivered her baby. But, at her regular appt on Aug 6th, she passed it as she was giving a clean catch. She was so excited. Now, other than the regular pain she has had with this pregnancy all the time, she is doing much better.

This Friday she gets an ultrasound & has a stress test done for her appt, Hopefully we will find out how much she weighs. They are giving her 2 more weeks for the baby to stay put & after that, they are going to be greedy & keep her in as long as they can. Did I mention that her name is going to be Katilena! It kinda had to grow on me, but now that I see how it's spelled - I like it.

Now, on to Alissa. At her ultrasound they told her that it's a 90% chance that she will have a boy. I havent heard of a name yet, but I'll keep you posted. She is doing well. We wish we could get up north more to play with Amelia. She's such a cutie. I'll post pictures when I get some.

As for Eddie & I, we have been busy at work. My department is growing & growing, which generates more paperwork, phone calls, etc. They keep telling me they are trying to get me some help (another full time sec would be great), but I haven't seen it happen yet. There are major changes coming here to DHMC, so I think they are waiting to see how everything pans out. I guess I can be stressed out a little bit longer! Eddie is keeping busy with Morrill Construction. We just hope they can keep him employed until the snow hits.

That's it for now. We love & miss everyone.

Alissa Expecting!

2010-06-30T18:37:00.004-04:00

Congratulations to Aaron & Alissa who are expecting their 2nd child on December 27. She will have her ultrasound toward the end of July, so hopefully we can find out what if it's a boy or another little girl.

We'll keep everyone posted.

The ultrasound says . . .

2010-05-25T10:13:00.006-04:00

IT'S A GIRL!!!

Cassie's ultrasound was yesterday. She didn't want to know right away what she was having, so the tech told Chris & I that "I didn't see any boy parts!" We didn't tell her until dinner that night. We had blue & pink cupcakes & had everyone pick the color they thought this baby would be. We then had her read the ultrasound report because I knew that she would have a hard time believing what Chris & I told her. (Of course, Grandma knew all along she was going to have a girl.) She was very excited & we are all excited for her.

Congratulations Cassie! We look forward to meeting your daughter.

Another Bundle of Joy:)

2010-05-14T21:04:00.005-04:00

Cassie is expecting her 3rd baby on October 18, 2010. Her ultrasound is scheduled for May 24th & hopefully we'll find out whether she's having a GIRL or a BOY. I am hoping for a girl, but Cassie does not want to know. We'll see if she will be able to hold out.

Some other good news about Cassie! She has been promoted to an Admin Supervisor at DHMC in the Department of General Internal Medicine. She's nervous, but we all know she'll do a GREAT job. Her first day on the new job is this Monday, May 17th. She will be supervising approximately 10 secretaries, so her hands will be full. She'll be learning a lot.

Congratulations & Best of Luck, Cassie. I'm here for you if you need me. Remember - there's nothing that you can't learn to do (and master scheduling is one of those things). Your dad & I love you very much.

2010-05-08T16:13:00.004-04:00

Mother, I love you!

Mother, I do!

Father in Heaven has sent me to you.

When I am near you

I love to hear you

Singing so softly that you love me to.

Mother, I love you, I love you, I do!

I remember singing this song many times as a young child. I wanted to sing it for you this Mother's Day also. Thanks for being the best MOTHER I could ever ask for & for being one of my best friends.

Last year I got to surprise you by coming home for Mother's Day. A big thanks to Colleen for picking me up at the airport & keeping it a secret.

Although I may be far away, I'm still sending hugs & kisses everytime I think of you.

Just a little bit of news!

2010-04-19T20:50:00.011-04:00

It has been awhile since I've taken the time to blog. The last few months have been busy for us. Eddie worked in Arizona from the end of January to the end of March. I'm glad he is finally home. I flew out & drove back with him - WOW - what a way to spend a week off work. I think he got a little spoiled while he was there. He is back to work now & things can finally return to normal.

This is my Easter Cake.

I saw a picture in a magazine of this cake & decided that I should try baking once again. I think I did a pretty good job, & the cake was good too!

We have been having fun getting to know our grandchildren. We see Kobie & Kale all the time & little Amelia as often as we can. It's quite interesting here at our home. For those of you who don't know, Cassie is expecting her 3rd child in October. Everyone, except Cassie, is sure it's going to be a girl. We'll find out, hopefully, the end of May.

Eddie bought me a new Vehicle while he was in Arizona. We now have a 2010 Nissan Armada, & I love it! Kale always wants to ride in Grandma's car because we can play videos. He calls the headphones his "hearlings". This is usually how he ends up, but if we try to take off the headphones he's wide awake. We've learned to just leave him alone. He's a lot quieter that way.

Isn't he adorable?

Work for both of us has been busy. I guess that's good - it keeps us out of trouble. Hopefully I'll be able to fly home in the next few months to spend a little more time. Becka & I need to start our planning :)

Christmas 2009 & (ugh) Snow

2010-01-03T20:12:00.008-05:00

This year we got to wake up on Christmas morning with Cassie, Chris, Kobie & Kale. It was fun to have little kids around again. They were surprised about how much was around the tree. When Kale (2 & 1/2 years) walked into the room he said "Oh, for goodness sakes!) Since they have had to sleep on the floor, Santa brought them a set of bunk beds. However, the most fun part of the bunk beds is the "ladder". Imagine that!

We gave Kobie a Bionicle (spelling?) set made by Legos. He loves those things. He can spend quite a while putting them together. We gave Kale a little work bench with tools that make noise. Now he can help Grandpa. He is Grandpa's little helper, as long as he's in a good mood.

Ben & Brittany pleasantly surprised us by coming home for Christmas. It's getting harder & harder for us to get all of them together anymore, so being able to spend time with each one of them was precious. (Cassie & her family is missing in this photo-they needed to go to spend some Christmastime with Chris' family.)

This is looking our our front door. We got most of that snow within the last week. The house you see across the street is the house Eddie & I are trying to buy.

This looking out our back sliding door. Isn't the snow pretty. (I'm sick of it already.) That hill you see is where the kids (big & little) go to sled down. They seem to have a good time, but it's too cold for me. I'll stay inside.

We hope everyone had a Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year. We are excited for 2010. Hopefully we'll be able to do everything we want to do. Hope to see everyone soon.

I'm the best?????

2009-12-11T15:58:00.003-05:00

I received a GREAT COMPLIMENT this week from my Practice Manager, Koren Fay. She came back from a meeting & told me that it was reported that I was the MOST EFFICIENT SECRETARY in the Department of Medicine. This includes all the clinical departments.

A few months ago, they came to us stating that they wanted to try to be 100% booked for scheduled clinics. This means that when someone cancelled an appointment, you were suppose to try to fill that slot with another patient. Sometimes I take most of the day trying to fill slots that have been cancelled. Koren told me that I was around 4% in not being able to fill the slots. That means that I was 96% able to fill the cancelled patients.

Hopefully this will bring a good raise & a nice bonus early next year.

Just a little note

2009-11-26T11:08:00.004-05:00

We want to wish all our family and friends a very Happy Thanksgiving. We love and miss all of you and can't wait to come visit.

I just want to tell my mom and dad how grateful I am to be their daughter. Thanks for all you have done for me. I miss going to the games with you and just going to visit after work each day. I love and miss both of you. Hope to see you soon - if I have my way, January or February.

Thanksgiving Day 2009

Feeling . . .

2009-10-17T08:59:00.003-04:00

a little homesick lately. Eddie - when can I make a trip to Arizona???

(Maybe he'll get the hint!?!)

This morning?

2009-10-13T07:46:00.003-04:00

I can't believe it's snowing already!

I'm not ready for this.

I'm thinking --- "long winter":( (I need to get some Arizona sunshine!)

He tried, but . . .

2009-09-27T16:01:00.008-04:00

Kale just couldn't make it through dinner last night.

Cassie made Shephards Pie (for the first time) last night & did a great job. She said it was actually the first time she had ever made mashed potatoes. Her meal was delicious!!

Thanks Cassie - even though Kale couldn't stay awake.

Showing signs of giving out!

Trying hard to continue eating.

Perked up a little for just a second!

Still trying, but . . . finally

Just couldn't do it!

Up Up & Away!

2009-09-20T20:42:00.002-04:00

This is a small glimpse of the neighborhood we live in. We are really enjoying it here & have wonderful neighbors. Eddie & I already knew the people across the street from us, The Van Bibbers (from church). They will be leaving next June/July, as Mike is finishing up his fellowship in Urology. They will be moving back to Utah. We are very grateful to have such wonderful friends & neighbors.

What is everyone looking at? An amazing site. This hot air balloon had just taken of from the field right behind our house & came flying over the neighborhood. They were really low over the roofs of the houses. Eddie ran to get the camera, & we were the only ones that got pictures of this. The kids were excited to have pictures to take to show & tell at school.

I hope to take pictures of the inside of the house soon & post some. I'm just slow. Things have changed for Eddie & I and I just seem to run out of time to get everything done. I promise I'll have pictures soon.

And Colleen, thanks for the pudding. It did make me a little homesick, but I was alright. You brightened my day, that's for sure.

We love & miss everyone.

Our New Home!

2009-08-18T16:33:00.006-04:00

at last for the next 9-12 months!

and we're so excited. We are going to rent this lovely 5-bedroom, 2 1/2 bath home in White River Junction, Vermont. And why such a big house, you ask? Eddie & I, along with Cassie, Chris, Kobie & Kale are going to live together for the next little while. Cassie is now working at DHMC in GIM (my old department-and she's doing a great job!) & needs to live closer to work. We are excited to be able to get to know our two grandsons a little better & spend some quality time with their family. Eddie & I know that we will need to make some adjustments, but we feel it is worth it.

We love & miss everyone & now we have plenty of room, so come visit!!!

Kindness begins with . . .

2009-06-26T19:15:00.009-04:00

So, Eddie was going to be nice to me today & take me to one of my favorite restaurants in the area. I don't know if I have mentioned this very much, but since there are no good spanish food places around here I love going to Koto's Japanese Steak House. They have wonderful Hibachi meals & they are all YUMMY! Koto's is a little on the expensive side, that's why Eddie does not like to go there very often. Today they sat us at the same table with 3 adults & 3 children. They were somehow all related & of course I have no trouble starting conversations with people we sit with at this restaurant. As we got talking, I mentioned that we were from Arizona. Two of the older kids (I'm guessing around 8 & 10 years old) had some questions about Arizona & Eddie talked to them about the Grand Canyon. We found out they were living in Tennessee, but had a vacation home in Quechee, VT (wouldn't that be nice). They come here for the summers. Well, the kids got finished eating & were starting to get restless, so they said goodbye & went to leave. Eddie & I were sitting there waiting for the waiter to bring us our check, but he came up to us & told us that "that lady has taken care of your dinner". WOW! This has never happen to us before from complete strangers. We didn't even exchange names (which now I wish we would have). We met up with her leaving the restaurant & of course thanked her for the meal, but telling her that she shouldn't have done that. She thanked us for letting them sit with us for dinner. We went outside & the kids got to see our Arizona license plate & their mom told them they could now go write in their book that they had seen an Arizona plate. This little experience made me realize that there are still people living in this world that are generous, kind & thankful people. Maybe there is hope after all. Eddie & I plan to spread this kindness as we are able to. It may not be at an expensive restaurant, but there are many ways to spread kindness. I think we just need to be reminded every now & then. P.S. I wish I could cook like this! I'd be in heaven.

Happy Father's Day!

2009-06-21T18:39:00.006-04:00

Thanks Kids for making your Dad very happy this Father's Day!!!

Some of Eddie's children wanted to take him fishing for this Father's Day, so they bought him a fishing pole, paid for a one-day fishing license & off to the lake we went. We went to Sunset Lake in Brookfield, VT. It is better know for the floating bridge (picture is at the end) that crosses it. Eddie & I crossed this bridge in our car back in 1997 when we lived here very briefly - yes, I did get very homesick & we decided to return to Arizona.

Here's Eddie with his new fishing pole.

Brittany also joined in on the fun with her new fishing pole.

Here's Kobie & Cassie. Kobie really loves to go fishing, but his patience needs a little help.

Amber also got a new fishing pole. She's actually the only one who caught anything & it was only the bottom of the lake - but we told her it was a big fish that just got away!

Although I can't take credit for the picture (I took it off the Internet), this is the Floating Bridge. You can't drive over it anymore, but it's still fun to walk across & fish from.

Once again, thanks kids for making your Dad very happy this Father's Day!!!

He loves spending time with each one of you.

Our New Granddaughter

2009-06-03T18:15:00.005-04:00

Amelia Rocker Smith was welcomed into our family on May 31, 2009. She was born at 4:31 AM, weighed in at 8 lbs & 12 ozs, & was 21.5 inches long.

Alissa went into labor during Brittany & Ben's wedding ceremony. She was a real trooper!!! She tried to stay for the dinner/reception, but just before dinner was served she decided that it was time to go home. They spent a few hours at home & arrived at the hospital around 1:00 am.

It didn't take long before Amelia was born.

Don't we make a cute little family!!!

Here I am with my grandma & grandpa.

I"ll have them wrapped around my little finger in no time at all.

Introducing . . .

2009-05-31T08:45:00.003-04:00

Mr. & Mrs. Rueben (Ben) Escorpizo

The happy couple posing with their wedding cake.

Daddy-Daughter Dance

Brittany is a very beautiful bride. We're so proud of her & all her accomplishments. She & Ben compliment each other is a good & positive way. Let's all wish them a happy life together.

We love you Ben & Brittany!

Happy Anniversary

2009-05-28T17:10:00.003-04:00

It's hard to believe that Eddie & I have been married for 13 years. It truly does not seem like it has been that long. We celebrated by spending a couple of days in Boston. I finally found a dress for Brittany's wedding (I know, I was waiting for the last minute). On Monday we went to the Science Museum & took the Duck Tour. I will try to post pictures soon (I'm actually at work & don't have any pictures with me). We got to see some of the historical buildings in downtown Boston. Since Eddie won't drive in downtown Boston we had to take the subway. Very interesting! I don't think that's something I would want to do everyday. We then picked Birttany & Ben up from the airport & headed back to New Hampshire.

I love you Honey - maybe next year -- -- -- Switzerland?

Happy Days :)

2009-04-20T06:20:00.003-04:00

We are so excited that Eddie went to work this morning. We've been waiting a long time for this day to arrive. The only sad part is that now I have to drive myself to work every day (or take the bus, which stops right outside our door). I'm just glad that there is no snow on the ground.

Just a little update: Cassie, Chris, Kobie & Kale will be back in Vermont next Saturday. They are moving back from Georgia. We are happy they will be closer to us. Now, for a little while anyway, Eddie will have all his kids within a short distance. Next to come - we're not sure - either Alissa with have her baby girl, or Brittany will get married. We should have a winner by the end of May.

As for Eddie & I, we are doing fine. We miss everyone back in Arizona & love to hear from you. Now that we are both back to work, things should be looking up. I'm really enjoying my job at DHMC. I'm learning all about the kidney's & high blood pressure issues. The office is busy, which makes the days go by pretty fast. Keep us posted about the happenings back home. You know me, I love to hear the gossip.

Changes! Can you spot them?

2009-04-08T20:18:00.006-04:00

So, we moved to New Hampshire and I decided that it was time for some changes. So . . .

Here the first one, which you should be able to spot right away. YEP, it's the new haircut. I decided it was time for me to quit thinking about it & just DO IT! I made an appointment with Shannon @ Split Ends (shop inside the medical center) & went up on my lunch hour one day. A few people knew, but most everyone else was totally surprised. They all seemed to like my new look. Also, check out the new clothes (you probably can't tell, but the pants are a size smaller :))

Now the hard part! There are two more changes that I had done.

Can you spot them?

Alissa's Baby Shower was . . .

2009-04-04T21:13:00.008-04:00

suppose to be a surprise, but she had already figured it out. We love her anyway. We met at a pizza place in Bradford,VT called Colatina's. They had her birthday party there for the last two years, so everyone figured that if she was told it was for her birthday party she would not suspect anything. However, she outsmarted us!!!

Brittany & Amber made cute cupcakes for the party & handled the decorations.

They did an awesome job!

We missed you Cassie & know that you were with us in thought. We'll see you soon!

We had a good time eating salad & pizza & watching Alissa open her gifts.

Here are a few pictures of the "Mother To Be" opening her gifts.

This is going to be one well-dressed, spoiled baby girl.

A few of the guests watching Alissa open her gifts.

One The Move Once Again!

2009-03-14T14:38:00.004-04:00

We packed up the house & got ready to move back across country to New Hampshire.

Thanks George & Colleen for all your help!

Saying "Goodbye"is always the hardest, especially with it's your mom & dad. I really miss them & can't wait to see them again soon. Thanks for all your help & support.

We left Arizona on Wednesday, March 4th right after lunch & traveled to Van Horn, Texas. We spent the night there & ate breakfast at this little truck stop. I just had to take a picture of this place because they did not have any Pepsi products at all (not even in the little store). If any of you know me, you know that Pepsi is my drink of choice & this is the first time I have come across a place that sold only Coke products. I had to walk over to the station next door to get my Pepsi for the road. Imagine that - I could not have made it through the day without my Pepsi.

We spent the next few days traveling through Texas, Lousiana, Mississippi, Alabama & then into Georgia. We arrived in Alpharetta, Georgia on Saturday morning. Cassie & Chris, along with Kobie & Kale, live in Georgia at this time. We got there just in time to see Kobie play an inning of baseball. He's quite the little sports fellow. Brittany had been staying with Cassie, enjoy some sister time. We spent the night with them & we left Sunday morning, bringing Brittany with us this time, to head up north. We got lucky & had good weather all day Sunday. On Monday, we had rain & a little snow in Conneticut, but by the time we reached New Hampshire the snow had stopped & the roads were clear. We had no trouble with either vehicle on the road & feel we made really good time. I'm also very grateful that Brittany was able to come back with us & help me drive. This was the first time I actually had to drive a vehicle for this distance. I have always had the privilege of being the passenger & keeping the driver (Eddie) awake. She actually drive quite a bit & I appreciate that very much. We love having her around.

more later . . .

Remembering Mom, Grandma & Friend

2009-02-17T19:01:00.002-05:00

Eddie has always had a heart of gold & that is something that I've always admired about him. He misses his mother very much & talks about her often. She passed away August 5, 2008 after a battle with Parkinson's Disease & the beginning of memory loss. He had a hard time seeing his mother the way she was, but is grateful that we decided to come home to care for her the last few months of her life. Although some people tell us that we need to decide where we want to live (back east or out west), we feel that sometimes things happen that you have no control over & we do what we feel is best for us. Eddie did not want his mother to be without a headstone (his father has decided not to purchase one until he passed away), so he went about getting one ready for her. He bought the wood, glued the pieces together & cut it into the shape he wanted. He had Jill (thanks Jill for your help-It means a lot to us) do the lettering for him. He attached the lettering & sealed it together & went to the cemetary to put in up for his mother. This is the outcome.

He had a hard time putting it up. He dug the hole & situated the wood & started to pack the dirt around it. He looked up at me with tears in his eyes & tells me that he has done this before - probably in his dreams. I then told him that it's obvious that he was suppose to do this for his mother. After he finished, he called his father & his brother Davy to come out to the cemetary & take a look at it. You did a wonderful job! I am so proud of you for always wanting to do something to cheer someone else up.

We miss you.

A Man & His Treasures!

2009-02-16T15:21:00.004-05:00

Eddie is very proud of each one of his children & wants them to know that he loves them very much. Although it does not show all the time, he really has a hard time being away from them. He tries to talk to them often & usually succeeds. He tells me all the time that "he feels he failed as a father", but I don't see that. In my opinion, he has been a wonderful father given the circumstances that he has been handed in life. Hang in there honey - we love you. We all know that you have made a lot of sacrifices & you will be greatly rewarded when the time is right. Here is the latest picture we have of him & all six of his children. Back Row: sons Cameron & Brice, Front Row: daughters Brittany, Alissa, Cassie & Amber.

GIM Secretaries (The Ole Gang)

2009-02-07T21:55:00.004-05:00

Can you believe these folks once had the joy of working with me?

They are (from left to right)

Back Row: Kristen, Janet, Me, Carolyn, Mike

Front Row: Koren, Heidi, Annette, Melodie

Sitting: Margo

When I first went to work at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, this was the "ole gang" that I worked with. We had won some award (sorry I don't remember what is was, but I know it had something to do with the "Bear" Margo is holding.) Some have moved to different departments & some have simply moved away. It was a joy working with each of them. Koren misses me so much, she just can't wait for me to come work for her (thanks for the job - I'll see you in March).

Birthday?

2009-02-03T22:34:00.003-05:00

Happy Birthday Honey! I love you!

On January 25th my wonderful husband had another birthday.

He's fifty-something.

Also, Happy Birthday to:

My sister Lori - January 21st

My mom - January 23rd

My brother-in-law George - January 29th

Hope everyone had a wonderful day.

It's Official!

2009-01-15T21:53:00.002-05:00

We're leaving bright, sunny Arizona, for this . . .

We will be heading back to Vermont/New Hampshire at the beginning of March. I say Vermont/New Hampshire cuz we're not sure where we want to live - New Hampshire has no sales tax, but Vermont is a little cheaper. I will be starting work on March 16th (thanks Koren for the job) & hopefully Eddie will begin working shortly after that. I'm not real excited to go, but we have to go where the work (for Eddie - I can get job anywhere) will be. He's pretty grumpy when he's not working, and he hasn't worked since November. We'll miss everyone here, & I'll have to find a volleyball team to go watch - maybe Hanover High School or Dartmouth College. Hopefully the snow will stop & the wonderful "mud season" will start. On a good note (for me, anyway), I won't have to put up with the Arizona summer heat. I'll be thinking of everyone while I enjoy nice cool (but sometimes humid) weather. Hopefully Cassie & Chris will visit so we can take their boat on the lake.

More later . . .

AHH - The Memories . . .

2008-12-25T22:55:00.010-05:00

I was looking through pictures on my computer today & came across these. Back in 2004, when we lived in Wilder, Vermont, Brittany lived with us for awhile. If I remember correctly, she had to go out of town training for a whole week & didn't want to miss her FAVORITE soap opera. This is what we found laid out on her bed after she had gone. She had laid out the tapes along with 2 pages of instructions. It was just too cute. I hope her dad (Eddie) was able to tape everything correctly for her - I don't remember if there was a problem or not when she returned home. Notice how neatly everything is laid out -complete with the remote controls.

Notice how she labeled a tape for each day of the week.

Two

Complete

Pages

Instructions

You are definitely ONE OF A KIND!

The Cushing Family

2008-12-14T20:06:00.008-05:00

Our Cassie & Chris, two wonderful people, made just for each other. We know you have been through alot & have been with you in spirit the whole way. Stay strong & things will turn out just like they are suppose to. We love you both & hope to see you soon.

Our #1 grandson Kobie, 5 years old. Born in March 2003.

An apple of his grandpa's eyes.

Cassie swears that Kobie waited to be born until we arrived in Vermont. We moved from Arizona to Vermont in March of 2003 & Kobie was born 2 days after we arrived.

We love you very much.

Kobie & Grandpa (2003)

Next came Kale, born June 2007.
Another apple of his grandpa's eyes.
We love you very much.

Kale & Grandpa (2008)

Disneyland continued . . .

2008-12-07T18:58:00.003-05:00

Since I was not able to connect with the site in CA, I'll just summarize the highlights. Here is Becka posing with Ariel. I think this was the best part of the trip for her.

On Thursday, we spent a lot of time in California Adventure. One of our favorite rides is

"Soarin Over California".

Becka wanted to sit in the first row so bad that I had to ask to be able to sit there. They, very happily, let us sit in the middle section on the front row. She was in heaven.

(I would recommend this ride to anyone - I'll even go with you!!)

Another fun ride for Becka (it made me sick) was the Grizzy River Run. Becka calls this the Grrrr ride. Although she does get car sick, she did not get sick on this ride at all. Hmmmmm.

Becka liked this ride so much - she went on it 5 times on Thursday. I could only go 1 time & that was enough for me. I just can't take the spinning around all the time!

On Friday, we were so tired. we went back to the parks & went on a couple of rides that we really wanted to (I think this was the day I made her go on It's a Smal World with me - she was totally bored with that ride). We went back to our hotel at around 2:00 & Becka was content to swim until suppertime. We had a really good time & I'm ready to go again! Anyone ready?

Becka says . . .

2008-11-26T23:55:00.003-05:00

it should be called "Disneyline" instead of Disneyland.

However, we are having a really good time here at the magical kingdom. Sorry guys, but yesterday I couldn't get my computer to find my camera disk. I did get some good pictures yesterday, & hopefully I'll be able to access them once we get home. Becka really liked her airplane flight! She got to meet the Captain & First Officer, & take a look inside the cockpit. As for the rest of the day, after we checked into our hotel, Becka couldn't wait to cross the street & head into Disneyland. We rode Indiana Jones (Becka did not like this ride), climbed Tarzan's Treehouse, went to Pirates of the Carribean, visited the Haunted House, went to Toon Town & visited Goofy's, Minnie & Mickey's houses. After riding the train around the park 1 1/2 times, we headed over to California Adventure to Soarin over California. We decided that was enough, and of course Becka wanted to swim, so we went back to the hotel & swam for a little while. Becka was so tired - when I went to move her under the covers she wouldn't wake up.

That was the 1st day. On the 2nd day we were awakened at 5:30 am to the fire alarm going off in our hotel. We quickly got dressed & joined everyone else outside. We later found at the the sprinkler system had built up too much pressure & needed to release. It could have picked a better time! We got ready for the day & headed over to the parks. Our first visit (of course) was Pirates of the Carrabean. We were the first ones to ride today & had a boat all to ourselves. We had to ride 3 times (yes, right in a row) before I could talk her out of going on. We then headed to Splash Mountain & only had to wait about 5 minutes. We didn't get too wet. We then went on Winnie the Pool, which I had to talk Becka into going on. We shopped a little bit & headed to California Adventure, where we spent the rest of the day.

"Pirates of the Carribean"

Riding "Jumpin Jellyfish" in California Adventure.

Waiting to see "It's Tough To Be A Bug".

Sitting down to ride "Soaring Over California".

AND NOW FOR THE HIGHLIGHT OF OUR DAY!

We had reservations at Ariel's Grotto. For those of you who do not know, Ariel is Becka's favorite princess. We ate a "very" expensive meal (but worth it). Right before we were seated, they took a photo of Becka with Ariel

(Sorry we can't post that picture - we'll bring it home.)

She actually posed with the characters this time.

with Snow White

with Belle

with Cinderella

with Jasmine

We also got to ride Toy Story - which was a lot of fun. Finally - we made the calls we needed to make, went back to the hotel, went swimming for about 20 minutes, took our baths, untangeled our hair & watch cartoons. We are going to sleep now (actually Becka is long gone) & looking forward to tomorrow.

Mr. & Mrs. Aaron Smith

2008-11-19T21:30:00.000-05:00

Alissa Norton & Aaron Smith were married on August 30, 2008. They wanted to be married in "the woods", so they cleared a spot that the minister recorded as "The Chapel In The Woods."
We will be getting our 3rd gandchild in May 2009. Thanks Alissa & Aaron! We're so happy for you & will track the due date on this site so your dad will be able to remember.

Proud Dad was very happy to be able to walk his daughter down the aisle. Thanks Alissa for giving him that opportunity.

Bridemaids Amber, Cassie & Brittany are waiting patiently for the ceremony to begin.

2008-11-18T20:29:00.000-05:00

This is our Brittany & Ben. They have been living in Florida & are leaving for Switzerland next week. We're going to miss them, but we've hooked up with Skype.com to keep in touch. We'll be able to visit just as if they are sitting in the same room with us. We wish them a safe journey, & (don't worry Brit) I'll be out to see you.

We love you both!

Dad & Lisa

Getting to know you . . .

2008-11-18T19:33:00.000-05:00

I have been getting to know my great nephews & nieces lately. It's a real treat for me.

Here I am with Paisley Papa & Cole Woods on their blessing day.

Thanks guys for letting me share this day with you.

Parker & Quinn (with Grandma Rocha) brought me a much needed fan to my office.

Here is how I'm getting Parker to like me - buying her treats.

Grandma & Grandpa Robinson, Quinn, Parker & myself are enjoying a PHS Volleyball Game.

GO Riders!

Sad News Today

2008-11-17T22:55:00.000-05:00

Going back to this!? This was taken right outside the sliding glass door from our apartment in West Lebanon, NH. It is very pretty at times - but COLD!!!!!

Eddie was told that he was laid off from the mine today. Does anyone know of any jobs? I don't particularily want to go back East, but I guess you need to do what you need to do. We both made a decent wage back there, but . . . it's so far away.

I'm just getting to know my great nephews & nieces. Anyone have any suggestions?