QUEEN OF MY KINGDOM

catching up!!! from March -August 2011

2011-07-26T21:53:00.000-07:00

No more HIGH SCHOOL for our sweet Aubree

3 generations

we love NANA

Our awesome Missionary on the left
Elder Travis Alan Williams
due home April 2012

Here is my Birthday boy who turned the big
"50" this year on July 22, 2011
he still bakes my cake!!

Our life's journey From September 2010 to March 2011

2011-02-28T14:48:00.000-08:00

Mitchell Bertell Van Wye Died 9-18-2010 my Brother was 54 :( heart attack)

our snow covered castle in Utah

Connor is dreaming of sand and warm clear water...hahah

Elder Williams loving the snow in Washington, Spokane

Aubree Ann in her Senior photos for 2011....

Making new friends with Aubree's Missionary Ferron and his cousin Marley and families....soooooawesome!

this is Miss Marci who is writing our Missionary Elder Williams, she is now going on a Mission as well..she will be home 4 months after Travis! :)

Here is our Connor who has now hit 6'1" and undefeated team at Alta in Sandy, "THE HAWKS"

Yes this sums it all up with our soon to be 13 year old Makinsee...

and life is still ever changing.....we move through it the best we can.....it is all in the JOURNEY....

SHOCKINGLY SETTLED

2010-08-19T19:42:00.000-07:00

We still can't believe that we settled in Utah!!!

Everyone asks the BIG question???

Why in the world would you move to Utah coming from HAWAII??

I guess that is a logical question , but for us it is all about being in the right place. When we moved to Hawaii we moved everything and planned to stay. Unfortunately with the economy and the harsh realities that the kids did not enjoy being a minority even though their Hawaiian Heritage says otherwise.

We arrived in Utah for some family reunions and to enjoy the summer, all the while looking for housing back in Temecula,California.

We had work in Utah reveal itself and every encounter with friends and family always seemed to end up in the same conversation beginning with "Why don't you move here to Utah?"

Even our son Travis who is on his Mission said he would love to come home to Utah!!!

Did I mention that my husband and I swore we would NEVER!! live in Utah....EVER!!

I am still eating our words but to our surprise we are really enjoying it here.

The kids are all ready for school on Monday, Connor is playing football with Alta High, and our home is lovely,the area is so beautiful and our Congregation is truly sweet!! Our neighbors have welcomed us so kindly, it has been wonderful!!

Did I mention that I live in UTAH!!!!!!!!!!

We have lots of friends and family that live in Utah, it has been a joy to visit over the summer and reconnect with those we love.

I have missed my blogging friends, I am so sorry to have been absent for so long.

I am grateful for the new friends and sweet adventures that have happened to me in my move from Hawaii.

This is the first time in our 21 years of marriage that we truly feel blessed to be in the right place. I really would like to not move ever again. The kids need to all finish school and have a sense of roots and home.

As for me, Hawaii is not just home but it;s in my blood and it is with me always.

I;m sure on snowy days I will wander back to the 42 steps from my door to the gentle creamy sand and clear turquoise water lapping up on the shore and washing over me feet to greet me. Balmy,breezy night with plumeria teasing my senses....it will be in my heart forever....

and I am so Grateful that Utah has said to us "E KOMO MAI" WELCOME......

Our Sun is setting for our Adventure in Hawaii...The Land of my Father

2010-06-18T00:14:00.000-07:00

And so it is that we are leaving Hawaii at the end of June. I have started to pack up the boxes and prepare for my Family to relocate to Southern California.....

I came to Hawaii to Honor my Hawaiian Heritage and the Land of my Father ,that he was taken from over 65 years ago and he never did return because of the loss of his Mother that he never was allowed to see or talk too once he left the Islands with his Father and brother, both young under the age of 10.

The tragic story of my Father's journey , being torn from his Mother through an ugly divorce after Pearl Harbor was bombed and relocated to a cement jungle in San Francisco, far from the warm clear waters and gentle breezes and the sweet kisses of his Mother is what brought me home to Hawaii.

Since My Father died after I was married and had never returned to the islands, I felt that if I ever had the opportunity, I would come to the place where he treasured in his heart and honor him, through teaching my children the beautiful things of the Hawaiian Culture. This would be the ultimate ALOHA to my Father and Grandmother and the ancestors before me, to Honor them, to do there genealogy and to stand as a witness that they lived and were always loved, no matter how far the sea separated them.

I thought I was here in Hawaii to stay, but I know that our move back to the mainland is the right move. I will be forever grateful and honored for this exquisite experience...
and it isn't goodbye to Hawaii...only ALOHA O'E until we meet again....

WHAT ARE THE ODDS?

2010-06-11T02:50:00.000-07:00

When I was in Utah in this past April, I was invited to bring my crazy group over to visit childhood friends of my Husbands, The Mangome's. We were invited for Sunday dinner. We had 6 people in our group. They had 8 people so, it was quite a party! Now, my Husband Al knew Suzanne from High school days and I knew Mark from High school days. But I had not seen Mark in 30 years. So, upon our invitation we arrived with flowers and a lot of chocolate cake. The majority of the group consisted of teenagers ages 12-22 and 4 adults, it was a blast to be with them.
As I was enjoying this homemade Italian dinner that began with an antipasti, crusty warm garlic bread,lasagna from scratch and shrimp scampi in garlic butter....ooooohhhhyeah..it was divine. Travis , my son and Aubree's boyfriend Ferron and Suzanne's son Tyler had a contest to see who could eat the most Lasagna!!

Well my son Travis won with "14" slices. Honestly I was embarrassed when I realized he had eaten that much. Mark and Suzanne thought it was the best thing ever and Travis was instantly bonded with the Mangomes!! He is now the Lasagna KING!

This photo shows the results of 14 servings of Lasagna!!

So as we visited over desert, Mark looks at my hand and asked why I was wearing his wife's ring? The story of how we got our rings were a little different. Suzanne got hers for an anniversary and
I got mine from Al as he was trying to get out of the dog house!
WHAT ARE THE ODDS?

this is the Mark and Suzanne, they have 5 beautiful children, Nick,Tyler,Goose,Bella and Connor. They were wonderful to be with and ended up spending more time with them before we left Utah. It felt like being with Family that we had been missing for so long.
We are looking forward to seeing them this Summer....

A TRIP TO REMEMBER...CROSS COUNTRY PROM

2010-06-04T18:07:00.000-07:00

This is Aubree Ann our oldest daughter. Aubree is 17 and this was her first Prom. Aubree was invited to attend her old High School Prom in Preston Idaho. She was invited by a friend that she had known for the last three years.This Prom was to be their first date, when they met they were to young to date, so this was going to be their official first date. Now traveling to Idaho all the way from Hawaii was a long way to go just for a Prom!Aubree came to me and asked if this would be possible. Her Dad and I decided that if she was willing to earn her way and pay for her plane ticket by working for it, she could go.She agreed and said she was up for the task. Aubree had 3 months to earn $800.00 for her ticket.Yes $800.00!! Aubree negotiated with a special Family that we love and they agreed to let her babysit their 3 children exclusively and that she would be on call for them every weekend and week night that she was needed for the next 3 months. They agreed to 80hrs of child care and Aubree did it!!We were so excited for her and very proud of her diligence to work and earn her way.About one month before she was due to leave for this exciting adventure across country, Her Prom date text her and informed her that his new girlfriend did not approve of him taking Aubree to the Prom . Needless to say Aubree was devastated !! She was mostly disappointed and hurt that he had thrown their friendship aside for a new girlfriend. Aubree thought they had a real friendship and she found that this was not the case after all.So,being the Lioness that I am over my cubs, I called this young Mans Father to inquire about this decision and the Father felt that the new girlfriends feelings were top priority! So I closed the conversation by thanking him for the knowledge that He and his son clearly have no honor or respect and that we were clearly better off by not engaging with them any further. I was so hurt for my Aubree, but she gave this situation alot of thought and she decided to still take the trip since she had earned her fare and she would be with me and Travis to drop him off for his Mission in Utah anyway.Preston, Idaho is a very small town and our best friends still live there that we had planned to stay with during the Prom weekend. The word got out as to what her Prom date had done and another friend of hers called her and asked her if she would consider him as her date ? She was glad that she had another invitation so quickly and that she would be happy to accept.So we were packed and ready to leave with Travis to take him to Salt Lake City and then to head up to Idaho for the Prom.Now did I mention that Aubree has been talking to a young man who is my friends nephew, through all of this Prom Drama and he lives in Salt Lake City. So her plan was to meet him for the first time while we were in Salt lake with Travis. Well they had been chatting for 5 months total before they were to meet on our trip. She was nervous and hoping it would go well.OK, so we get to Utah and our best friends from Idaho come down to Salt Lake to spend the week with us getting Travis ready for the MTC. Aubree's friend arrived to meet her and all of us and especially her older Brother who definitely wanted to give an approval of this new friend. Well he passed with flying colors and turned out to be a wonderful guy, he also is leaving on a Mission to Atlanta Georgia in August. Aubree and her Friend were together every day while we were in Salt Lake City, we all enjoyed his company and She was in Heaven with this new handsome sweet guy that started out as a pen pal or text pal , and now has all of her attention!!!Well what about this Prom in Idaho? Oh yes, her new friend was aware of her Prom Drama and he drove all the way up to Idaho to spend the weekend with us after she was done with her evening at Prom.Yes, he waited with us while she was at Prom and we had a great time....Do you think they hit it off or what? lol..well I can tell you that Jake her Prom date was very nice and treated her to a very enjoyable evening....and the "Cou De Gras"was that the EX-Friend who had the new girlfriend came to the Prom and Aubree was fine, she handled it all with dignity and courage, she looked lovely and she came home from the Prom Happy! She did not let the Ex-friend get to her, she rose above it all and she got a Prince charming who was waiting for her return......they are still chatting every night by phone and she is hoping to see him off for his farewell for his Mission in August......whew....THAT WAS A TRIP TO REMEMBER!

Aubree in her dress and Jake her Prom date.

This is her prince charming Ferron.

,All's well and ends well!It was a trip to remember

FInally "12" her last year of Pre-teenness

2010-06-04T16:15:00.000-07:00

I KNOW..........she doesn't look 12!!, well with 3 older siblings all teenagers, she just can't help it!
She will be going into the Young Women s Organization on Sunday .
She no longer has to attend with the primary kids and she is soooo excited.
We went shopping on her Birthday she got her eyebrows done for the first time and had a makeup lesson form MAC at Macy's.
We shopped for a new church dress and ordered Chinese food and had an Ice cream cake for dessert.
She loved her cards and gifts and wonderful Birthday calls from friends who sang their hearts out!
Her surprise gift was from the Mangome's from Utah who sent her an edible arrangement with chocolate dipped fruit and SHE LOVED IT!!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY MAKINSEE!
YOU GO GIRL!

MAN ON A MISSION

2010-06-04T15:56:00.000-07:00

Travis is doing extremely well on his Mission. His letters home speak of deeper sense of spiritually, a joyful sense of gratitude for his blessings and a love for the Spanish language that he is trying to master.Sharing the good news of Jesus Christ with those who are searching for it is a journey that he is finding true joy and he is humble and grateful.I have never been more proud of him .....

COMFORTING CARROT CAKE......AND GREAT WOMEN

2010-06-02T23:34:00.000-07:00

Today was a baking day for some comforting moments....We are trying to transition in our life with moving back to the mainland to Temecula,CA.
I remember when I started to blog last year we were packed up to move and our escrow from one of our properties fell through. I remember blogging about my frustrations and taking photos of the beach in front of my house, as I walked along the sand. I received a comment from my friend May in Minnesota, I hadn't known her when she left the comment, but I have loved her ever since. She reminded me of the beauty around me and to keep positive and remember my blessings. I was so surprised to even get a comment, but her comments really spurred me on to MORE blogging and to stay positive.Today I found my self frustrated in the process of our transitioning to the mainland, but I stopped and thought of my sweet friend May at
Currentlyontour.blogspot.com and I baked some rolls and made some carrot cake from scratch. Everyone enjoyed the comforting food today and we enjoyed our day together as well ,this is my Mahalo to May for being my friend when I needed one from so very far across the sea
ALL MY ALOHA
BRANDI
...........................here is the Recipe ...........................
PREHEAT 350 DEGREE
BUTTER AND FLOUR A 9X13 PAN
3 CUPS SUGAR
2CUPS VEG OIL
5 EGGS
1TSP VANILLA
-----MIX UNTIL CREAMY AND LIGHT----------
ADD---
3 CUPS GRATED CARROTS
1 CUP CRUSHED WALNUTS
1/2 CUP RAISINS
1/2 CUP CRAISINS
-----SIFT TOGETHER---------------
4 CUPS SIFTED FLOUR
2TSP BAKING POWDER
2TSP BAKING SODA
1/2 TSP SALT
2 TSP CINNAMON

---------ADD DRY INGREDIENTS TO WET MIXTURE AND POUR INTO A PREPARED PAN BAKE FOR APPROX 30 MINUTES...FROST WITH BUTTER CREAM ICING.

Makinsee's May Day

2010-05-22T17:53:00.000-07:00

May Day here in Hawaii is a wonderful opportunity for the Youth to Celebrate in Native Polynesian Dance and also other cultures as well.
My youngest daughter Makinsee participated with her class in representing the Island of Hawaii.

Their colors and flowers are all very traditional.

Her lei and head piece were hand done and the flowers and plants come from the Volcano on Big Island.

We have truly loved being part of our heritage, I feel really honored and blessed for my children to have the opportunity to know their roots.The best way for me to Honor my Father,and his Mother,my Kapuna(Grandmother) and her Mother is to teach and share with my daughters.

Hawaii is my heart, no matter where I am...
All My Aloha
Brandi

BACK TO MY LITTLE GRASS SHACK IN HAUULA HAWAII....

2010-05-05T21:14:00.000-07:00

It has been a whirlwind trip to drop off my son Travis and we are all home safe and sound. The weather is a cool 70 degrees and a lovely breeze greets me through the palm trees.
I missed the ocean being so far from it in Idaho and Utah.

I had to get right in the water, it was clear and warm, the water is very healing here. I think it has a lot to do with the Aloha Spirit in the Islands.

Did you know that when the Islanders use to greet people, they would put their forehead against yours and you would breathe in at the same time. It was to breathe in part of your spirit and share theirs with you.

I love the Spirit of Aloha and all that it stands for, it is in the breeze, the crash of the waves. the quiet reverence of the emerald green mountains..the air is filled with Aloha.
The sound "Ahhh" is the appreciation for breath..,.Alo means the presence of God with us and "ha "means breath, Hence the forehead to forehead custom.

I have just shared with you one of the secrets of Aloha......
Aloha Nui Loa

LOVING THE MOMENT!

2010-04-26T13:18:00.000-07:00

Having a great time in Salt Lake with family and friends,Travis is so happy and excited to enter the MTC in 2 days,
I have been traveling with my two oldest and we are really loving the moments together.

I'll check in soon
missing you all
Aloha

Wisdom?

2010-04-02T18:01:00.000-07:00

Today was the day for Travis to have all four of his Wisdom teeth pulled.He was very courageous and relieved that it is over and done.Now he is counting down the days to leave on April 22 for Utah and his new adventure as a Missionary.I thought this would be a good page in the Family journal to remember his final days at home...here are some facts about wisdom teeth,

They are generally thought to be called wisdom teeth because they appear so late—much later than the other teeth, at an age where people are presumably "wiser" than as a child, when the other teeth erupt. The English wisdom tooth is derived from Latin dens sapientiae.

I made meatloaf,macaroni and cheese and chocolate cupcakes with chocolate frosting,
hoping he remembers the comfort food and not the "WISDOM"

My Favorite Artist of Hawaii

2010-03-25T01:05:00.000-07:00

This is the work of Kim Taylor Reece, He is my Favorite Artist in the islands of Hawaii. He has a way of capturing the essence of the Beauty(Nani) of the Hawaiian and Polynesian Culture.
I would like to have a few of his pieces in my guest room someday when I am retired and I can share with my visitors, some the finer things of Hawaii, the classic ancient Hula is something to preserve and enjoy, it is the true center of Aloha.
all my Aloha
Brandi

"LETS RIDE"

2010-03-12T01:25:00.000-08:00

This is "THE BEST BIRTHDAY " I ever celebrated. My Sister Holly came from Arizona with her Husband Jim and brought their Harley's, we rented ours since we did not own any at the time. We have owned Harley's on and off, but we have always loved to ride...This was the first time I rode with Al on my own. He likes me to ride with him, but It was time for my own ride!

I was raised on motorcycles from the age of about 7. My Brother raced dessert bikes and so my parents belonged to a racing club. We spent many weekends in The high desserts of California and Nevada racing. For me, being on a motorcycle is home away from home. The Rumble of a Harley underneath me just screams "Cool". It's not about the speed, just easy rider. There is a certain sense of confidence that comes over you when you are on the open road. It's free open spaces and the wind in your face, ahhhh...love it!

This was for my "40th". I was so thrilled to be with the people I love and cruise up the Coast of Southern California from Oceanside to Newport Beach on Highway 1 along the lovely West Coast.
We stopped at Olamende's in Capistrano Beach for great Mexican food. It has been there since as long as I can remember. We stopped in Laguna Beach for a cold drink at Las Brisas on the water. I worked there years ago as a cocktail waitress, oh yes, memories!

I truly loved this ride and the wonderful memories I will cherish forever. It has been six years since this ride and I haven't ridden since. It has been too long. Al and I are thinking we would love to ride here in Hawaii, but with 4 teenagers, our Harley dreams are still brewing.

Here is to the open road in Hawaii. This is a shot of the Highway out in front of my house ....
I'm thinking for my 47th this year in August....."LETS RIDE"

7 Secrets

2010-03-05T01:29:00.000-08:00

I love this motivational message...
I am including this in my memoirs..
for the "loving people" in my life and my Future Posterity
-1-

Aim high in all that you seek
only the Best within you
-2-
Be cool in keeping your temper bridled
a balance in all things

-3-
Every minute is so precious
The time we have is today
and only the promise of tomorrow
-4-
Reflect before you act
Wisdom is in the reflections of your journey
-5-
See the world
Live Life like you mean it
chose for yourself,
do not let society define you
-6-
Be up to date
be present
be punctual
No time for regrets, say your sorry
-7-
Push hard to achieve your goals
Integrity
a solid work ethic
By the sweat of your Brow
There in no substitute for
Accomplishment

I think I should hang out in my room more often!

Sending you all warm Hawaiian sunshine for a successful weekend..
Aloha

Tsunami Evacuation in Hauula, Hawaii

2010-03-01T19:28:00.000-08:00

WILLIAMS FAMILY -HAWAII TSUNAMI EVACUATION 2-27-2010

Does this look like an evacuation or Camping with friends?
Well I have to say it was more like camping last minute with great friends and lots of music. food , laughter and lots of visiting.

We had someone pounding on our door at 5am!! We were packed for evacuation in 45 minutes, we also packed for any chance of robbery while we were absent with the evacuation. It took a bit of coordinating, but each family member really pulled together. I am so proud of my Family!!!We gathered for a family prayer before departing our home that may or may not be there if the tsunami hits?
We gathered at our church building,built up on the hillside of our little town of Hauula. The Bishop of our church was stationed at the bottom of the driveway entrance, greeting the church members and community
as the procession of cars drove into the safe harbor of the parking lot around our Church building.People had smiles and were genuinely happy to see each other.
No arguments, just team work. It was surreal, were we really going to have a Tsunami?? we had to be prepared for at last three days, food,clothes and water, tents,sleeping bags etc...Travis my oldest hooked up his stereo to his converter and his car battery and speakers, Reggae music began to move through the air and people were dancing as they walked by to visit!!
Even our Boxer Duke, relaxed in the back of our old Cadillac with Nana,with no worries.
As I took calls from the mainland of worried family and friends, they were startled at our ease and peaceful spirits! My dear sister Holly cried when she heard my voice,I was taken back at her fear? Then it hit me , we were really in an emergency, but we were truly fine!!
We were at ease , we were safe, together and grateful for our blessings. We could of been worried and fretting over what could of happened, but that would of only brought uneasy emotions and unneeded stress.So we spent the next 8 hours fixing meals out of our coolers, sharing with nearby friends and snapping pictures off and on.
By 2pm, we were given the clear sign to return to our homes, our being 42 steps from the water, it was a miracle and we had just lived through it!

As we waived goodbye to our fellow neighbors and church members, we all had such a huge sense of relief and gratitude for the blessings of the day of safety and the love of our fellow friends and neighbors.

As we got home, the kids were exhausted!!! The emotional buildup of a possible trauma had found it's peak and they all headed for their beds. Not before we unpacked of course. They grumbled a little but not too much, it was so nice to come home to peace and safety. As I walked in the door, I knew that our home was not robbed or visited by any unwanted strangers. This brought tears to my eyes as my mind raced back to July when we were robbed on a Sunday while being at church.

All was well and we were home
We gathered for Prayer to give our thanks for being alive and safe and together....
All my Aloha
Brandi

Meant To Be...

2010-02-26T19:19:00.000-08:00

This Movie is how I received my Birth name.

Hatari!

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Hatari!
original movie poster by Frank McCarthy
Directed by	Howard Hawks
Produced by	Howard Hawks Paul Helmick
Written by	Harry Kurnitz Leigh Brackett
Starring	John Wayne Elsa Martinelli Hardy Krüger Red Buttons
Music by	Henry Mancini
Cinematography	Russell Harlan
Distributed by	Paramount Pictures
Release date(s)	October 6, 1962
Running time	157 min

Hatari! is a 1962 American film directed by Howard Hawks and starring John Wayne. The title means "danger" in Swahili, which was mentioned in the film as well. Portraying a group of hunters, the film presents an interesting if antiquated portrait of Africa still dominated by non-Africans. The film is extremely popular because of the dramatic wildlife chases and the magnificent backdrop scenery of Mount Meru, a dormant volcano.
Hatari! was filmed on location in Tanganyika, (in what is now northern Tanzania). Many scenes were filmed near Arusha, Tanzania on a hunting ranch, Ngongongare Farm, owned from 1960 by actor Hardy Krüger. The final chase through town was filmed in Nairobi, Kenya.
The film gathers its several characters from different parts of the world: Sean Mercer (John Wayne), Pockets (Red Buttons), Anna Maria 'Dallas' D'Allesandro (Elsa Martinelli), Kurt Müller (Hardy Krüger), Brandy De la Court (Michele Girardon), Charles 'Chips' Maurey (Gerard Blain), Luis Francisco Garcia Lopez (Valentin De Vargas) are, respectively, from USA, USA, Italy, Germany, France, France and Mexico.

I was inspired by another blog to discuss how it is I have the name Brandi.
The blog that inspired me has such an elegant story.
Simone,
http://theromanticqueryletter.blogspot.com/

Me , not so elegant!!
It is kind of Funny, My parents went to see this film in 1962 and my Mother loved the name Brandy from a charachter in the movie. She was a an attractive woman , and my Mom really seemed to like her.
I have seen the movie and it was ok, but I was not drawn to it for an on-chore?
I was born in 1963, August and clearly the movie stuck with my Mom. She changed the spelling , but kept her decision to name me Brandi.

As a small child in 1st grade, I can recall the mean kid in the class taunting me calling me Whiskey and Scotch. I did not like the teasing or the demeaning comments attached to my name. Children can be so cruel can't they? And what 6 year old knows all the alcoholic beverages??? Anyway,
After first grade my parents decided to move to Southern California from the Bay area, so I inquired of my Mother to please allow me to go by my middle name Ann at my new school. She was agreeable and hence , I was known by Ann all through elementary and middle school. Thats me with the bow in my hair, celebrating my birthday 6th birthday! I did not like short hair.

It was strange to be called Ann at school and Brandi at home.
By the time I had reached High School I had decided to go by my given name and reclaim myself.

I felt very powerful inside by making the decision to use my name correctly and fully. It was a turning point for me and I really needed that sense of identity. It was a long time for kids to get use to me going by my first name and not "Ann."After a while I really disliked hearing my middle name used.

I was just in my early thirties when I had the awakening as to why I had those struggles as most of us do in our teen years. I realized that when my Mother allowed me to change my name and go by my middle name, she was giving me permission to hide from myself and others as to who I was.My given name was not something to change, or be ashamed of. I clearly at the age of 6 did not want to be associated with alcohol or anything negative! who would? but I never told my Mom why and she didn't really mind either. When I told her later on of my experience of figuring out why I had my issues, I asked her why she let me change who I was? She said in that era, nicknames were popular and people often went by names other than their Given names, you remember, Buffy, Bing, Red, all 50's slang.She never thought it was an issue of concern.I understood, I wasn't looking to blame her, I was looking for enlightenment and understanding.

I came to realize at that time in my early thirties that because I had been allowed to change my name, I was given permission to be less than I was, I had been hiding out since I was 6?. This was huge for me!! I know that my life would of been different had my parents told me to be proud of my name and of who I was!! So interesting how something that seemed of such little consequence created dramatic results.

My teenage years were pretty typical for a teenager who had parents struggling to keep a marriage together, the pressures of the unhappy home life certainly motivated me to socializing with my friends and probably not the best choice of friends either. My Mother was active in our Faith but I wavered and decided I wasn't interested in going to church either, how could I be good enough to be around these girls in church when I wasn't even able to own my own name?.These decisions of mine were all stemmed from not knowing who I really was.I was lost and it would be a 18 years from that 6 year old moment of decision before I would find my way home.

At the age of 24 and fully owning who I was in name and Spirit, I knew I had been missing so much in my life. I was a Hair Designer and living on my own ,really wanting and needing more. I decided I wanted to have a family and raise my children in the Faith that I was raised in. It was an excellent environment and I wanted good values for my children, so I needed to change the fast paced life I was living. I made the decision to end a bad relationship I was in and move home to live with my Brother for a while.I knew my way of living was not bringing me happiness and I wanted to see if God would be interested in taking me back? I had been on my own to long, but would he want me?I had to find out , I went back to church on my own and made promises to God and myself that I was "all in" and that if he could make me happy, I would serve him forever!!.

I quit any and all bad habits immediately and I have never looked back! This was in the early part of March 1988. I met my husband on a blind date the following month through a mutual friend at church.
We dated and were engaged in September of 1988 and we were married the following February 1989.We were married n the LDS Temple in Los Angeles, it truly is Happily ever after...

My husband had never been "part of the crowd" when it came to bad habits, not that he didn't make mistakes, but he had a strong sense of who he was and so he never smoked, drank or did any drug of any kind.
I asked him how it was that he never got caught up in those wrong choices as a teen? He said he just didn't? I still had continued to struggle with why I had been off track with my choices?

And, so on that quiet morning when I had been on my morning walk, the light came on in my mind ,spinning back to the decisions I had been allowed to make in regards to changing my name. It had impacted my spirit and belief system, that I needed to be something different than who I was to be accepted. I spent that day with my Mom in tears of sadness for that little 6 year old who was looking for relief and a safe harbor from ridicule and tears of Joy for the relief and gift of enlightenment , to see the path clearly and understand the answers and reasons for my altered journey.

I don't regret my journey, it makes me who I am today. It has made me a stronger, more insightful Mother. I can tell you that I chose names for my children that had very little options for taunting at school. Lets face it school is a jungle as it is!Some things never change!

This experience has also motivated me and challenged me to seek out opportunities for conversation and communication with my children.
I am so grateful for my Mother in my Life, she has stood by me and loved me unconditionally all my life.Mom has lived with us since 1996 on my Husbands invitation, we have enjoyed the company of Nana. My kids have grown up knowing Nana as a part of their Family life and it has been special for us all.

The sweetest part for me has been sharing our spiritual relationship.My Mom was also raised in the church and so I know her prayers for me were answered as I found light to my life and a desire for happiness.
Being a Daughter of God and knowing who I am was just " Meant to Be"

Aloha

Sunday Dinner

2010-02-23T22:19:00.000-08:00

We are California natives and so the love for Mexican food is in grained in my family food of favorites.
The tradition began with my parents, as we lived in southern California about 2 hours from the border of Mexico , we would often take trips across the border, we camped on the beach , fished and enjoyed the atmosphere of Mexico. This was in the early seventies, things were much simpler and safer then , but the food has remained wonderful.

We would travel to a small village one hour south of the border called Puerta Nuevo. It is a small fishing village. They would sell Lobster dinners, complete with all the beans, rice and tortillas you could eat and the entire dinner, $5.00 a plate. These restaurants were made from peoples homes, if one filled up the next door would open. It was a memorable time for me as a kid. My dad would pitch pennies with me against the wall of the house outside ,while we waited for a table. He was so generous and always let me win,

back then you could still buy penny candy!

Throughout my youth into adulthood, we continued the tradition of making the trek to Puerta Nuevo for the famous Lobster dinners. Now, as it is a part of my Family traditions, the plate goes for $13.00 to 15.00 dollars. It is now in remodeled buildings and complete restaurants, about 6 of them, but the original is in the first building that they now call the Newport. always a line out front ,first come first serve and they open promptly at 11:15?
I always thought that was funny, but we waited our turn and so has our kids. They have fond memories of going on the journey to this little village across the border for the delicious goodness of fresh grilled lobster with all the trimmings and cold soda from glass bottles and the girls would have their hair braided and they would swoon over the turquoise and silver bracelets calling out to them as they would drag their Dad from stand to stand and the boys would have high hopes of a kool trinket, like bull horns or a leather slingshot or a miniature accordian to torture us with on the long trek home, slowly moving in the neverending stream of cars awaiting the signal to cross over into Freedom.

The poor children and adults would walk in and out of the cars, trying to sell their wares ,men carrying blankets and statues,children also barefoot and dirty trying to sell chiclet(GUM) for change. young mothers would walk to the window with paper cups begging for change while the babies would be wrapped in material around the backs of these women, inhaling the car fumes and barefoot on the hot, dirty, asphalt.
These images are seared forever in my mind . I remember my parents as they would give to the street vendors as we waited our turn to cross the Border to journey home.I think I had an accordian from one of those long line moments and I'm sure it drove them crazy too. As my kids had these experiences, I would engage with them in specific conversations about gratitude for the blessings in their lives and to be more mindful of them as they see these other children juggling golf balls, for entertainment to the massive lines of cars, jetting infront of cars for a solo performance in hopes of a monitary response. I remember my husband gave this boy a larger bill for his willingness to entertain us, but that he wanted to share his talent not just beg and you could tell he was happy for the gift of his talent.We talked about him all the way home, so many have exploited their children to do anything they can to survive, it was all very sad and heartbraking to watch it as it unfolded all around our vehicle , the glass seperating us from such devastating levels of poverty.The pounding on the windows with kids wearing multiple sombreros one on top of the other hoping for a sale.Their faces dusty and sweat lines dried on their cheeks...we were penniless by the time we reached the Border, we dug for every cent we had to give even in the ashtray and under seats with what we could...but it never, ever seemed to be enough to feel like we gave in some small way, they are just so poor!

By the time you reach the Guard at the border and declare your purchases your elated and somehow you exhale with a huge sigh of relief that you are headed for safe passage to the comforts of home.But the images of these people and their struggle doesn't dissappear, the ride home is quiet, the kids fall fast asleep and we both ponder our family day in Mexico....

And so our Sunday Dinner was tasty Mexican food with memories of our trips to Puerto Nuevo and the days of our youth. It is so great to have memories that are generational. I wonder if my children will ever take their kids to the little village of Puerto Nuevo that is a part of my childhood and a part of theirs too.

No Lobster!! darn it!! on Sunday, but we did do the traditional beef tacos, homemade beans and rice with chocolate cake . It was loved by all, hope you enjoy it too!

This recipe is super easy!

follow Duncan Hines Chocolate cake box directions

adding 1 cup of sour cream

1 cup of chocolate chips

1/2 tsp espresso powder

FROSTING

1 large bag of powder sugar or 2 boxes

1 stick butter room temp

1 tsp vanilla

pinch salt

add cream a little at a time until frosting is perfect consistency

try 1/4 cup of cream little by little, add more if necessary.

frost cooled cake and serve

CALLED TO SERVE

2010-02-20T20:42:00.000-08:00

This is my oldest son Travis, today we are celebrating him as he has been called to serve a Mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in the Spokane, Washington , Spanish speaking Mission.He will arrive at the MTC in Salt Lake City on April 28, 2010. He will serve for 24 months and will be serving in the areas of Northeast Washington, Northern Panhandle of Idaho and Montana and parts of the Canadian border.
Travis is extremely thrilled for his call to serve.

We couldn't be happier, prouder and anymore grateful for this wonderful young man of 19, who has the desire to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ with those who are searching .

Travis finished High school in 2009 as well as achieving his Eagle Scout.Travis works full time for a local construction firm. Being outside, building things and getting dirty is in his top ten of favorites, he will miss the surfing and of coarse his friends. In his spare time he coaches Cheer for BYU Hawaii 2010. Travis plans to return from his Mission and attend the school of his choice , play football and look to his future to share it with someone special. I am Happy to report he is leaving very single!!
We are so very glad he has his goals set and that he is open to all of his possibilities. My heart is tender for this young man in my life. He reflects all the qualities that are important to me .I can only hope and pray that I have given him the tools, values and spiritual desires to face life with courage, integrity and a knowledge of who he is. I am honored to be his Mother . I love you Travis, my son.

The Deep end of the Pool

2010-02-18T00:09:00.000-08:00

I have to say that I use the analogy of a swimming pool in reference to life's issues that I experience.I have to dedicate this post to my dearest friend Holly M. She shared this gift with me for Valentines Day and I must say it left me with a desire to dog paddle a little longer in the deepest part of my pool of life. This book is not for those who hang out in the shallow end of the pool, although it may help you to have the courage to swim a little deeper!

She sent me this book, a true story of a Breast Cancer survivor...written by Kim Rives and found on Amazon.com
This true story is really thought provoking and certainly gives hope to all of us, especially those who have to walk the path of Cancer. I hope you will take the time to read Kim's story. I emailed her and told her that there was no way I could repay her for the knowledge of hope and Faith that she shares in her story, but that I would honor her story by sharing it with those I love.
I like to keep my word, so here it is
this is my gift to all of you fabulous friends that share my blog world out there.I hope you take the opportunity to read about Kims experience with life and near death. It is life changing...or at the very minimum thought provoking!

All my Aloha

Rules We Try To Live By

2010-02-16T02:20:00.000-08:00

This hangs in my dining area where we gather daily.These rules have been in force in our Kingdom as long as I have been married and we just celebrated 21 years on Feb 3.

I'd like to say that these rules are read everyday by every member of my Kingdom, but they are not...
I think they are visible to everyone, but they are not necessarily read line by line as they should be, for a reminder of comfort and peace.

I can say that when any issues arise that are adversarial, we go straight to the rules of the kingdom. If the parties involved have broken more than 5 of the rules, the phones are turned into the Dungeon for a full 7 days and grounding to the castle accompanies the seven day sentence. This may seem so lenient...5 broken rules before the 7 days, but if you notice , the majority of these rules are closely connected, so if you have broken 1, you may very well be guilty of several.

I also can report that when the guilty parties are reading over the rules after a poor choice has been made and then asked which ones apply to their issues, it is very interesting how tenderhearted they become when they have to identify the broken rules out loud.

How to keep a spirit of Love in our Home has been the greatest test above all others for me as the Mother or" Queen of my Kingdom". My entire family would probably tell you that I, "THE QUEEN" have the hottest temper and that I roar the loudest. I am fierce and true to my reflection of my Leo nature. It does not always serve me as well as I would like. In keeping to my Lioness attributes, I am very protective of my cubs.

I love to watch them play with each other and enjoy family time together. Now, in their teenage years it seems they want the normal independence of me, trying out their worldly adventures and always expecting triumphant returns. If only life worked that way.........licking their wounds is just part of the healing process, but it is hard to watch from my seat on the Throne. How will they learn if I do not let them try?

I can say that my prayers are filled with hope for strength and guidance to know what is right as their Mother?
That they will make better decisions than the day before, be a little kinder and judge a little less, be a good friend and say "I LOVE YOU"....it sounds easy enough...doesn't it?? ah only if it were so easy, than Life wouldn't be so HARD!
It seems that we only have today...and the promise of tomorrow...

I am so humbled in gratitude, that the promise of tomorrow brings me the hope of strengthening my weaknesses and it gives me another chance to endure faithfully.

I do hope that they will be forgiving of me when it comes to my weaknesses, and that they will know always that my eternal love for them resonates above all else.

How I pray that they chose these rules to live by for their own Kingdoms someday....

Home Rules courtesy of www.deseretbook.com
PHOTOS courtesy of
freaking News .com
jungle walk .com
castles from google

WHAT A RIDE!

2010-02-09T17:11:00.000-08:00

This is my girl!!! I owned her for two wonderful years!!

Of all the cars I have owned, this one is my favorite. she drove like a dream...

As you started her up,she would growl with her deep rumbling pipes, preparing you for an assured adventure on the open road.

She was flashy and always attracting a positive energy. It was often that I would get a thumbs

up as passing cars would give there salute of admiration as a kind of payment for a glimpse of her beauty. I think I would of loved a lot about the 50"s!!

She just screamed kool!!

I felt wonderful behind her wheel, timeless, classic and just pure style....

I gave any and all who wanted a spin in her a ride , I felt very generous with her, I knew she was a blessing and

I am all for sharing the JOY!

My Husband drove this 56 Chevy Truck,

he did not let anyone drive it!

This was his favorite too! It was a time of "Sweet Rides" for the both of us.

My eldest son took both cars to the high school for the year book photos.

He somehow felt like they were his too!! at 16 who wouldn't?

These cars went with our new Business!

We bought this building from a local bank and remodeled it from an old mexican restaurant

to a very kool Diner!

We lived another dream opening this restaurant...

but we worked so many hours that our family time was gone.

None of my children miss the business, they also worked and lived it with us.

We lived up in a canyon during our brief stay

in Idaho, so driving her along the country roads was truly nostalgic...here are a few pictures of our home on the hill.

This is our country cottage on 3 acres in Sugar Creek

out in Cub River, Idaho

This is Sugar Creek that runs through the base of the property.

We only lived here just under 2 years.

We really do not miss the cold, but it was beautiful.

Nothing like the living in the country, I do miss my horses and the easy breezy country days.

It was fun to give it a go in the restaurant biz, I think we miss our cars the most!!

My Caddy went to Belgium on sale through Ebay and Al's truck sold to Colorado .

We knew that Hawaii was not a place for classic cars with all of the salt air!.

Moving everything to Hawaii was very expensive, so we said goodbye to the cars.

There is a season for everything, if I have learned one thing it is that "THINGS" come and go

but "Families are Forever".

people have questioned us for moving a few times in the last 5 years. Aren't we worried about the kids?

How will they adjust? and the questions kept coming?

We felt that we are willing to take risks as long as we are in sync as a family.We never made decisions

without a family council and lots of prayer.

We are California natives,we are both from Northern Cal, but I was raised in Southern Cal.

When the Real Estate slumped in Calif in 05, we relocated to Idaho to try a new business in a new

climate and a better economy or so we thought?. It just was not for us, but we did follow through with our goals and the finished product was very desirable. It was through our blood ,sweat and hard cold cash that we knew we wanted something else!!

Isn't that always the way, only after hard work do we come out the other side knowing what we do and do not want ?

We knew that we did not want to live in the snow! We knew we wanted,

preferably the warm sun, ocean water and if we had to do any struggling, let it be in Paradise!

Many lessons were learned from our move to Idaho.Our best friends moved their as well. It was hard to leave them since we had never lived in the same town before. They have found a peaceful life there

and we are so happy for them. We also still have family that is sprinkled all over Cache Valley.

It was a memorable experience and it is what catapulted us to Hawaii. For that I will always be

grateful for our "RIDE" through Idaho and ALOHA!!

My Strongest Weakness....Patience

2010-02-04T17:57:00.000-08:00

The Parable of the Chinese Bamboo Tree...

This was posted by http://riddlezreview.blogspot.com/ she is one of my favorite people in this whole world!!! of course I love this and I hope you do too! Thanks Traci

"In everything you do in your family, keep in mind the miracle of the Chinese bamboo tree. After the seed for this amazing tree is planted, you see nothing, absolutely nothing, for four years except for a tiny shoot coming out of a bulb. During those four years, all the growth is underground in a massive, fibrous root structure that spreads deep and wide in the earth. But then in the the fifth year the Chinese bamboo tree grows up to eighty feet!

"Many things in family life are like the Chinese bamboo tree. You work and you invest time and effort, and you do everything you can possibly do to nurture growth, and sometimes you don't see anything for weeks, months, or even years. But if you're patient and keep working and nurturing, that "fifth year" will come, and you will be astonished at the growth and change you see taking place.

"Patience is faith in action. Patience is emotional diligence. It's the willingness to suffer inside so that others can grow. It reveals love. It gives birth to understanding."

From The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Families by Stephen R. Covey (pp. 22-23)

The Rainy moments.....

2010-02-01T18:27:00.000-08:00

THE EVER SO LOVED CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIE....YES FROM SCRATCH!
2cubes butter
1c brown sugar
1c white sugar
CREAM WELL
~ADD ~
2 eggs
1tsp vanilla
3cflour
1tsp baking soda
1tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 and 1/2 c chocolate chips of choice and add nuts if desired
BAKE@ 375 9-11 minutes~~ best results on parchment paper and golf ball scoops

SOME WOMEN REFUSE TO SHARE THEIR RECIPES?

~MY RECIPES DO NOT DEFINE ME~THE RESULTS OF THEM AND THE SHARING OF THEM DOES~

Does this scream out to you on a rainy day? At my house, a rainy day is a great opportunity to gather my teens around me with comforts and memories that bind us all together with the taste and smells of home. When I was growing up, my Mom worked outside the home...always, I was what they call a latch key kid! I guess I found comfort in the kitchen as I would call her at work and she would give me the instructions to start preparations for dinner. This helped her, since she got home usually around 5:30pm and it helped me to not feel so lonely while giving me a sense of purpose and responsibility. I have one older brother 5 years my senior, but he was usually busy in his life, so it was just me. I remember chilling glasses in the freezer for my parents so they could have something a little special with their dinner. I was a pleaser and I was hopeful to make them happier than I knew they were . Ok, that's another post! So, with sharing that little memory into my past, here are a few memories I tried to create over our rainy weekend.

Making Cards is really enjoyable and a great way

to enjoy my time with these growing teens who seem to open up when they are a part of things. The girls of coarse...my guys...not so much on the cards! But they enjoy the food that is happening!
The guys hover around the kitchen and family room as to be sure they are not missing out on any important discoveries from the oven. They add a few tauntings and teasings to keep up the fireworks,
while the girls make sure they are at the front of the line for the first tastings emerging from the kitchen....ahhh the balance in all things!

THE ROLLS FOR SUNDAY DINNER!

The men in my home eat half a dozen of everything!! usually when it is all still warm from the oven, I think there is something about allowing them their fill. I like them to feel that there is always enough.

In my youth, I remember having to be careful and not always having a FILLED PANTRY.This is my way of changing my past and offering my children something different. I always say that we either repeat our upbringing or we change it. I have tried to change the things I didn't care for and repeat the things I thought were worthy of passing on . I am sure I have not been completely successful at this, but I continue to try!

AND BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND...THE PINEAPPLE SCONE!

I hope you all had a wonderful weekend

I am wishing you all my Aloha for a Fabulous week

Queen B

Merci'!

2010-02-01T17:31:00.000-08:00

I am so very honored this award comes from a lusciously brilliant chef
in France, she will wow you with her delights...please visit her blog
I know you won't be disappointed...all my ALOHA to
http://auxdelicesdesgourmets.blogspot.com/

It's True...Only 42

2010-01-24T00:19:00.000-08:00

As I promised in my post about the sweet scents of paradise, I only have to walk 42 steps to the water. This is photo is taken from our upper deck above our garage.Just to the left of the photo is the Plumeria tree that exudes the sweetness I enjoy on a daily basis.

These next two photos are of the beach that is just there beyond the car in the first photo.
this is looking south east to towards Honolulu.

The clear water is very warm, as you can tell in the first photo

the highway runs along the edge of the beach. It has to be one of

the best drives I have ever had the pleasure of taking on a daily basis.

This view is to the North if you were heading towards Laie,Sunset and Haliewa.
This is the beach I wrote my friends name in the sand .
I walk this beach frequently, sometimes my footprints are the only ones in the sand,depending on the time of day. I love being alone on the beach,just soaking in all of the natural beauty surrounding me. I try to clear my mind and just enjoy the moments of peaceful ,lovely, paradise.

I want you to know that I am a firm believer in living your dreams. Living in Hawaii has always been a dream for me, it's on my bucket list. Does living ones dream come with out sacrifice? No, nothing is ever really perfect, yes even in paradise. I will say that it is however, worth it...to achieve the dream. Maybe it's everything you wanted or maybe not, but the incredible part is the journey, not the destination.

I don't know how long we will stay in Hawaii, but it has been an incredible experience. I am most happy that I can say, it was one of my dreams and I lived it! I hope you will be inspired to contemplate your dreams...and go for it! The hardest part is making the decision, the rest will follow.

I did it! and I shared it with the ones I love the most....do you dare to live your dreams?

OH..HAPPY DAY!!

2010-01-22T01:13:00.000-08:00

          WOOOO.....HOOOOOO......OH..HAPPY DAY!!!
         My Sweet Friend...Gail....Over at
                    Obee Designs

        Tagged me with a HAPPY 101 AWARD!
           I must list TEN things that make me happy:

      1. MY BELIEF IN GOD

2. MY FAMILY

3. MY FRIENDSHIPS

4. PURE RELAXATION

5. BOBBLES &

6. TOKENS OF AFFECTIONS IN PINK

7.GOOD MUSIC

8. THE SPA

9. FRESH SWEET STRAWBERRIES DIPPED IN WARM WHITE CHOCOLATE

10. TO COOK FOR THOSE I LOVE

THESE ARE TEN BLOGS THAT MAKE ME HAPPY

Just want to pass on some Aloha to...

1. May at Currently On Tour

2. Kim at White Whispers 2 U

3.Traci at Riddle Me This

4.Karyn at French Charming

5.Ethel Mae Potter at The Adventures of Fred and Ethel

6. Aux DelicesDes Gourmets

7.Ash at Asra Ashaon Ka

8.Kellie at Ada and Darcy

9. Holly at Holly Days Bliss

10.Fiona and Twig

Aloha to all of my wonderful friends that I share my blogsphere with...

Aloha Nui Loa... wishes from across the sea...

Brandi

Sweet Scents of Paradise

2010-01-19T00:33:00.000-08:00

These are a few of the Plumeria's that grace my island.
Tonight ,as I walked out in my yard ,I could feel the ocean breeze gently pass by me. This rare "cool" breeze was accompanied by the sweetest scent of Plumeria....ahhh...hmmm..! It actually stopped me in my steps and I inhaled deeply to be sure I wasn't imagining it? I took another deep cleansing breath , looked up at the dark evening sky peppered with sparkling stars, I could hear the faint sound of the waves quietly meeting the shore. I completely submerged in the moment , it was truly magical. My front door is exactly 42 steps to the sandy ocean.It's a dreamy spot all in it's own way...
Stopping to take in the sweet scents of paradise was just what I needed at the end of a better day. My families safe return from the days events of comings and goings from every direction was a welcomed relief. We closed our day with a warm bowl of homemade Macaroni and Cheese, tossed greens and a Ham Panini . Our family prayer was filled with hope and help for Haiti coupled with immense gratitude for all the blessings in our life. Focusing on just being grateful in the now, for what we do have and not focused on what is lacking. Our Family home evening was centered on Honesty. It is really amazing to listen to my young adults and teens discuss what honesty means to them and how it directs their lives for the good.
Tonight . " My cup runeth over with the sweet scents of Paradise".
I'm sending you all the sweet scents of paradise....Aloha nui loa

On a Lighter Note...

2010-01-15T14:48:00.000-08:00

DARK COCOA BROWNIES-PINEAPPLE SCONES-WHEAT ROLLS & POTATO CORN CHOWDER~

Just a few things made in the Royal Kitchen this week....

BROWNIES -

This recipe has been used by the my Mother since I was born...1963

Preheat @ 350 -30 minutes check with clean tooth pick
2/3c sifted flour
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2tsp salt
6Tbsp dark cocoa powder

~~whisk dry ingredients in a separate bowl ~~

2 eggs
1c sugar

1/2c vegetable oil
1tsp vanilla
cream eggs and sugar then add oil and vanilla
1/2c nuts chopped
frost or top with powdered sugar if desired

SCONES -
please note this recipe makes a ton of scones, but I have 4 teenagers with friends who love them~~~they freeze beautifully

14 c flour- can add 10 white and 4 wheat if desired
2Tbsp baking powder
2tsp baking soda
1c sugar
1tsp salt
~~whisk dry ingredients in large bowl~~
6 sticks butter cold and grated
CUT mixture with pastry cutter or fingers should resemble small pea size lumps
1pint sour cream
1cup cream

add 2 large cans crushed pineapple drained -reserve juice for glaze

add more cream if mixture is to crumbly

should pull together, roll out 1 and 1/2 inches thick large rectangle

slice 4 inch sections and cut triangles

place 9-12 depending on desired size on greased jelly roll pan

brush with cream

Any choice of fruit may be added, frozen berries is also delicious, note fresh fruit will not keep as long in scones...frozen or canned or dried fruits seem to work best;)

GLAZE

1 box Powdered sugar
1/3 cup pineapple juice
1/2 tsp almond extract
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
whisk and glaze scones while they are warm out of oven, let cool and serve.
BAKE @ 375 15 minutes

WHEAT ROLLS -I HAVE POSTED MY ROLL RECIPE UNDER ROLLIN IN DOUGH-JUST SPLIT FLOUR HALF AND HALF WITH WHEAT FLOUR AND WHITE!

POTATO CORN CHOWDER

1c chopped onion
1c diced celery
8c diced potatoes -peeled
3c corn canned- reserve juice
6 garlic cloves minced

~~cover raw vegetables with water in a stockpot then add reserved corn juice~~

simmer until vegetables are tender~~

2 sticks butter
qc. flour
1quart half and half
2tsp salt 1 tsp pepper
2 Tbsp Parsley~~in a large sauce pan melt butter and add flour whisk briskly until you have formed a rue , should be a light Carmel color add cream, corn and seasoning to mixture bring to a simmer and add directly to stock pot of tender vegetables in water~~

Stir until thick...may add cheese if desired, Harvarti, cheddar, cream cheese or your favorite!

So glad to share some things on the lighter side ;)

WISHING YOU ALL A ROYAL WEEKEND.....Aloha...Queen B

crown photo courtesy of costumevintagejewelry.com

My Kinda Blues....

2010-01-11T00:02:00.000-08:00

Heirlooms... from three generations of lovely ,leggy, Blue eyed dazzles from the roaring 20's through 2008.
Exquisite Eleanore , daughter of Elegant Anna...and Mother of

Divine Dorothy, these three women are the Mother, Grandmother and Great Grandmother to my Husband.
The striking commonalities of all five(including my husband and youngest daughter) of these cherished loved ones is their Blue eyes .
All three of these women who have graced our past and honored us with their memories, also loved sporting the fashions of their eras.

Anna in the 20's and 30's and 40's, Eleanore in the 40's and 50's and 60's
Dorothy in the 50's and 60's ,70's and 80's and 90's.
Since Dorothy is my Mother in Law I knew her the longest.Every one of these lovely beauties had great sense

of style and charm.
Dorothy recently passed in 2008 but not without leaving behind a legacy of love for her posterity to cherish and enjoy.
I have recently come across these photos saved from Dorothy's family files.

I am so very grateful to have them and document them for our posterity . I love Family History and Genealogy, it's one of my passions. We believe families are forever, so along with these classic photos of bygone eras are pieces of heirloom jewels that were saved through the generations.
Dorothy was not specific as to exact dates and pieces,

but it is evident in their designs. She had taken great care of her Mother Eleanore and I know she loved her Grandmother Anna as well. Dottie's closet was dated by decades.As sad as I was to have to sort through the things she had collected and enjoyed through her life and the lives of these women before her, it was really interesting to piece together the puzzle of her past and what was deemed cherish-able.

I chose the Blue pieces to journal because that was their favored color amongst the three, it matched their eyes. I know my camera and photography skills are in need of improvement, but I must push through my limitations and hope that the thoughts are enough.

I would like to see these Blue eyed lovelies remembered,cherished and appreciated for their similarities and their differences. They all had fine qualities. Each of these women were different and very individual, still chosen and woven together with lovely shades of undeniable Blue....I am so glad my youngest lovely daughter Makinsee carries on the Blue. She too is as dazzling and individual as the Blue eyed lovelies before her.
I know Makinsee is happy to have her Big Blues...
I tell her often I would love to swim in them.
It will be fun to see if the Blues continue on in our posterity.
As much as I love our Family tree of pictures and eclectic bobbles of bygone eras, the golden threads that weave and bind us together is our relationships, love and the sweet memories to cherish and share with those that continue to come forward and keep the links of our Family Chain strong ,bonded and forever eternal. These are definitely...My Kinda Blues...............

Have I done any good in the world today?

2010-01-08T17:23:00.000-08:00

This New Year has brought me a deeper understanding of just how fragile things are in the World. At the same time, windows into people's lives have been opened up to me, where I have had a chance to view their concerns, hopes, dreams,struggles,passions,worries,challenges and yes even triumphs. In learning a little about myself, I know I am a fixer, or I at least try to be. I have come to understand that the key for me is to be a good listener rather than focusing on trying to fix what ever issue of need is at hand. A dear friend of mine recently shared her desires of living in the tropics, as I am doing and the thoughts of island living seemed to lift her spirits and bring her glimmering hopes of fresh and exciting chapters on the horizon.
Our 25+ years of sharing our lives together is a precious jewel to me. She is a few years my Senior, we met when I was 18 and I knew it all!! Where do I begin to try describe this Regal Beauty of Style,Grace,compassion for others and a fierce ability to slay the Dragons that flew into her life . She knew who she was and I loved that about her. I remember a time when I was still in my late teens and we were going out for the evening somewhere very elegant and I felt unsure of myself,she quickly calmed my fears and said"Bran, just walk in like you own the place"! I followed her lead many a time, never failing me...
I grew up with her, when my husband first met her, he understood me, much better.
She taught me a lot about my inner beauty and self worth.Her head start over me in life was definitely in my favor. I tried to learn from her mistakes that she shared with me rather than repeat them.I have found that in moments of sweet triumphs in my life , I want to share them with her first. She has blessed my life, just by sharing her life with me and loving me unconditionally.
I met her through a co-worker in the Beauty business, I have been a licensed Hair Stylist since 1981 and I am currently still,. She was looking to hire a few people and my friend invited me to come along and interview with her.Well that was the beginning of our adventures in life together, we were roommates ,sisters,friends and co -workers too.We spent many days walking the beaches of Laguna trying to figure out the keys to happiness in life...our time on the ocean is where we are at home and find peace.
We reflected a lot on the poem " footprints" during those years of walking on the beach together. It's still a favorite.

My point to sharing this precious jewel of a friend with you is that through our last conversation by cell, I felt so helpless being so far away.....remember I'm a fixer......not that being in the same room with her meant I could of changed anything for her and she wasn't needing me to fix anything either. It was just the love and support you feel when people you care about are burdened. I ended our chat with a request for her to check her in box on her email.....this was all I sent

her name in the sand, it's not the clearest photo, it was taken from my cell phone,but it was my Aloha to her, and she loved it...I hope it was something good in her world... love you Sharon....

PERSEVERANCE

2010-01-06T15:55:00.000-08:00

thomaskincade.com

In Perseverance; thunder crashes, sails billow, waves toss the fragile boat. We see that the clouds are about to break. The sea will calm; the sailor's perseverance will soon be rewarded by a return to God's safe heaven. Perhaps this painting can assure each of us that if we can simply persevere, God's hand of love will soon disperse each storm.

- Thomas Kinkade

I happen to own this painting in my Art collection..., I love it! I was first drawn to this piece because of my love for the sea and sailing with my Father.So it has a double meaning for me.. It seems to me that our lives are very much like the boat in this painting, if you look very closely on the back of the boat it is named Faith, and you can see the light inside of the boat and it has a glow. When you have the painting under a dimmer light, depending on the bright light or a low light determines if the boat is sailing into a storm at sunset or sailing out of a storm at daylight... I just love it, aren't we all sailing in or out of storms in our lives? It is not the storm that is important, but how we weather it...right? The rub in life seems to be that none of us really ever want to be in a storm.Clear weather and calm seas is the forecast I like! If all we ever get is good weather, how will we grow?, how will be be able to "Persevere" and become stronger,heartier,deeper, someone of substance.?
Now, I don't go looking for storms either, but you know as well as I do that a storm is bound to show up sometime!! so....
I hope you will consider" Perseverance" in your next storm...I have this painting hung where I can look at it everyday in my room. You know, I am writing this blog for my Children and their posterity so that maybe, they will get to know a little bit about me through my eyes and thoughts and feelings about life and my love for them. I wonder who will end up with this Painting of mine, years from now? I hope they have a chance to read this post in my published memoirs of my personal journey..it's on my" List",then they will know a little more about what is behind this simple painting of a boat and the Sea and what it meant to me.
Did I mention that when I brought my husband to look at the painting at the T.K. Gallery he bought it on the spot for me? He knew my love for sailing and for my Dad, so he didn't hesitate. Thank You Al for loving me enough to honor me with this painting...I Love You

So here is the essay I wrote about my Father that was published in my College literary magazine,THE DELTA WINDS,San Joaquin Delta College,CA. I was just happy to pass the class, never thought this would be my first publishing, and hopefully not my last! I am honored to share it with you...Aloha

FOR THE FUTURE QUEENS FROM MY KINGDOM...My Bucket List

2010-01-02T23:06:00.000-08:00

I think that I have decided to post this because it is very personal to me. I love blogging the most because it allows me to truly share who I am and what I am thinking and feeling . When I am able to someday slurp this blog into a hard bound Family Journal for my posterity, maybe they will feel a little closer to me by reading things that happened in my life and those whom I love most and those things that are important to me.

The things on my Bucket list are not in order of importance . I did date the things that I have already checked off, some things I won't ever really know until after I have kicked the "BUCKET"!!

I have also changed the name of my BLOG,as I am sure you can see. I decided that while this blog is about my family, I wanted to take the focus off my name and make it a little FUN! I was hoping to post the picture of my white Hummer that had my license plate"4RQUEEN" but it is still in IDAHO on the wall of our Restaurant.And the Hummer that the license plate was attached too,I sold in Honolulu last year ,2009, when gas hit over $5.00 a gallon!! I was commuting to North shore everyday.I loved my 2004 WHITE HUMMER...may she forever ride free

Things come and go......

One thing that will never change is...... there is only one QUEEN in my Kingdom and I love to remind my friends that they are the Queen's of their kingdoms as well.

So this post I dedicate to The Future Queens from my Kingdom and to all of you who rule your Kingdoms with love,grace,happiness,laughter,peace,good food,lots of forgiveness for yourself and others,kindness,charity,faith and hope. Share your dreams, make them a reality ,we only go around once, love the life you live and live the life you love....and if you haven't a Bucket List???...write one!!..it really opens your mind to things that only you know about yourself,your dreams,your hopes......once you write it, put it out to the Universe!!! I just did and so can you. I will continue to date my list as I accomplish them.

At least think about it?....here goes.....:))

My Bucket List

BE ON A GAME SHOW -FAMILY FUED DONE-1979 MARRY A KING DONE 2-8-1989

WITNESS A MIRACLE-DONE 1993 HELPED IN THE BIRTH OF MY BEST FRIENDS SON J.M.,SAW MY SWEET K.C.,T.R. AND M.C CHOOSE GOD IN THEIR LIVES AND LIVING IT..I LOVE YOU ALL 2001
.

RIDE IN A HOT AIR BALLOON DONE -1991

BE PUBLISHED-literary College magazine at San Jacinto college, a poem about sailing with my Dad DONE-2000

CREATE MY OWN PERFUM IN FRANCE DONE-2004

OWN A RESTAURANT-ROADSTERS GRILLE done 2006

OWN A RACE HORSE AND RACE DONE-2006

WORK AS A REALTOR @ Sotheby’s intl. DONE-2008

SWIM WITH DOLPHINS DONE-2008

GIVE MY TESTIMONY IN HAWAIIAN DONE-2008

HEAR SHERI DEW SPEAK-BYUHAWAII DONE-2008

LIVE IN HAWAII DOING-CURRENT

FIND MY HAWAIIAN FAMILY NAME& LINEAGE

TAKE PIANO LESSONS AND PLAY ANY HYMN AND THE THEME FROM “THE NOTEBOOK”

WRITE A BOOK AND PUBLISH IT

OWN AND RIDE MY OWN HARLEY

LIVE TO ENJOY ALL OF MY GRANDKIDS

RE-UNITE MY BROTHER WITH MY MOTHER

TRAVEL TO ITALY,GREECE,SPAIN,SCOTLAND,IRELAND,ENGLAND

NORWAY,SWEDEN,DENMARK,EGYPT,AFRICA

HAVE A 2^ND HONEYMOON WITH AL

BUY AL HIS A CAMARO

CHANGE SOMEONES LIFE FOR THE GOOD

SEE AL ATTAIN HIS DREAMS FOR HIS SUCCESS

BECOME A REGISTERED NURSE & WORK IN MATERNITY

LOSE ALL OF MY UNWANTED WEIGHT & STAY HEALTHY

BE A BEST FRIEND

PUT ON THE 10 VIRGINS PRODUCTION FOR THE STAKE

HAVE AN 800 FICO SCORE

SEE ALL MY CHILDREN MARRIED IN THE TEMPLE

MEET OUR PROPHET

LEARN ASTRONOMY AND PHOTOGRAPHY AND CALIGRAPHY

BE ON A COOKING SHOW

SLEEP IN A CASTLE

RIDE A ANDALUSION HORSE

SEE MY CHILDRENS DREAM S COME TRUE

KEEP MY FATHERS MEMORY ALIVE IN HIS POSTERITY

HAVE AND USE SKYNET

LEARN TO COOK AUTHENTIC, THAI AND GREEK FOOD
MAKE MONEY WHILE I SLEEP....zzz...$$$...zzz...$$$

SEE GRAND CANYON, NIAGRA FALLS,YELLOW STONE,REDWOODS,MT.RUSHMORE,PALMYRA,NAVOUU,TENESSEE,ALABAMA,KENTUCKY,CAPE COD

GO SEE OPRAH WINFREY SHOW

HAVE OUR DREAM HOME-WHERE THE SPIRIT DWELLS ALWAYS~

Christmas in Hauula 2009

2010-01-01T04:29:00.000-08:00

With the Holidays and activities all so close together I am posting my Holiday photos a little late. But I did not want them to be left out of our family journal.Blogging began as a way for me to journal our life together, but it has really become so much more. I really enjoyed our Holidays this year.It was our last Christmas together for the next two years. Our Eldest son Travis is serving a Mission for our Church in 2010, he will be gone for 2 years. We feel like every moment is a moment worth savouring. He is going to be a great Missionary and he is really excited we are excited for him too!. His time with us is short and we all love being together.Travis bought the Christmas tree this year and brought it home after work one day. It had to be the most perfect shaped tree we have ever had. It smelled divine, as if he had just cut it!! truly the pine scent was wonderful.It was a sweet gesture on his part to contribute such a special part of our Christmas. We felt the Spirit of Christmas in our home and with our loved ones ...I hope you enjoyed your Holidays for 2009.

New Years Eve Birthday Girl!

2010-01-01T04:08:00.000-08:00

We celebrate Nana every New Years Eve with a small family Birthday party. This year she wanted Lemon cake.We spent the day together, running around the island and doing lunch with the kids, going shopping and then we came home and we sang to her and had a few gifts .Breakfast will be Martha Stewart's Popovers with butter and Jam ,Thick Smokey Bacon and Orange Juice.She wants her favorite Chicken Pecan from Martha Stewart's Cookbook also for New Years Day Dinner.She loves to watch all of the Bowl games on TV, so I think we are set!.Happy Birthday Nana we all love you! Here is the recipe for the Lemon Cake, it is from The Barefoot Contessa, I think she should of called it Lemon Zinger!! and I would of served it with a scoop of Vanilla Bean Ice Cream!next time I will...Ina makes it in 2 loaf pans but I used a large Bundt pan instead and it was great.. Here are the three recipes I used,If you have any problem reading the last 2 I will be happy to email them to you. Have a Great New Years Day...Aloha

My Favorite Gift ...

2009-12-30T01:50:00.000-08:00

This Tile was made by my youngest daughter Makinsee, she is 11 almost 12.
You see I started a tradition with my children from the first moment they started school. As they would be ready to exit the car and walk into school as kindergartners, I would say"Remember who you are" and then I would say "Who are you"? and they would smile or grin and say "A Child of God" "bye Mom"
That is how I began every day dropping them off at school or where ever they were going .It became a ritual that I have always continued. Now that Al works from home a lot he takes the kids to school and lets me sleep in. So I do not have those moments with them as often. So on Christmas morning as we were all opening gifts, I was quiet and very tired but enjoying the Christmas fun taking place. Makinsee handed me her gift and as I opened it...I broke out in tears...her sweet spirit of kindness and love towards me just knocked me off my feet...and I was already sitting!!! I wish my camera was better to really show you the tile, but I thought it was most important to share this gift on my blog since it is my family journal. Makinsee reminded me that these few words we would share meant something to her and it meant something to me.How I loved this Gift, the special reminder, As a Mother, I live for these moments and she reminded me of who I am. I hope we can all go into the 2010 New Year remembering who we are...Aloha

Missing Paris...

2009-12-30T00:41:00.000-08:00

BON JOUR
This is a collage of our 2ND trip to Paris in November 2005. I wanted to post these photos since I just came across them and I realized I hadn't written about it. This trip included France and Belgium. The majority of our time was spent in France. We stayed at our timeshare in Paris and we rented a car. We drove everywhere!! Loved it!! The open markets are definitely a favorite. Paris is a city that I am most happy to walk almost anywhere.
Our first trip to France included the South of France , the Riviera and Northern Italy. I had my perfume made in Grasse at Galimard . It was on my Bucket List and I am still thrilled to of been able to of done it. I named my Perfume... Queenie... I can order it online and also get it in shower gel and body lotion. Really fun!! Walking along the river, dinners at street side cafes,chickens roasting at the open markets and the drippings from the chickens flowed down into a pool of potatoes happily bathing in the hot juices.The Museums , Parks ,Architecture,History just overwhelmed us with their beauty.
A dinner cruise along the river in Paris was magical, and the accordion players leaning on the bridges as you walked by watching the Artists paint.
The Crepe Carts were so fresh and always available to serve up a delicate treat sweet or savory.
Standing in line at the Eiffel Tower and listening to all of the International languages....just a few highlights of Paris ...I love Paris....don't you?

I Could Live On Bread Alone!

2009-12-28T23:25:00.000-08:00

I made these rolls for dinner tonight.My family loves them! I have been making these for 21 years. I got the recipe from a luncheon I went to, the Hostess gave me the recipe over the phone and explained how to do it. Well the first batch was not half bad, but after many years of making the rolls it has become a no brainer!! So please try this recipe and they are the best when you have your teenage Son or daughter around to knead the dough by hand for at least 5 minutes!!! I have been making them for years with my Kitchenaide, but they are most tender when kneaded by hand they melt in your mouth!!.So if you have a teenager around...friend or relative...get them to help you and it is a great time to spend talking and catching up! They have fun too...Bon Apetite

Sisters in Paradise for 2009

2009-12-28T15:08:00.000-08:00

My Mom(Kathy or Nana as she is known to us) had a surprise visit from her eldest Sister Julie from San Francisco on Christmas Sunday. We were able to get to church early and so I caught a moment of them on the church bench together. I thought it was interesting that Kathy has the exact coloring of their Mother Bernice , lovely white hair and Julie has their Father Julian's dark hair. I grabbed the shot of them and thought it would be cute to show that how the generations continue even in coloring, they love their time together and we really enjoyed visiting with them. As the evening came to a close, Aunty Julie and her husband Jim were able to catch a standby flight on United back to San Francisco. So, My eldest daughter Aubree who is 16 and ready for her license offered to be the chauffeur for the airport. I was designated to be the assistant chauffeur and we had the three Seniors in the back seat of the Cadillac. Nana on the left side Julie in the middle and Jim on the right. The ride to the airport is about 30 minutes. and as the conversation began amongst the Seniors in the back seat, I noticed that each one had a tight grip on the over head grips above the window on each door and Julie seemed to be white knuckled on the front seats where Aubree and I were very comfortable in the front seats and enjoying the ride. As a turn came up to enter the airport freeway, Aubree was going a little fast and had to adjust her speed during the turn, it became very quiet at that moment and we all exhaled and were happy to of survived the merge onto the highway with no casualties. It was actually a fun excursion and they arrived in time to catch their flight. Definitely a memorable experience for these fun seniors who all love to drive still have their licenses to drive and do!! It was great for them to allow our new driver to spread her wings on the open road at night with 3 back seat drivers and all over 70!! It was a great accomplishment and I thought she conquered it well....You Go Aubree!!!

Roll'n in Dough

2009-12-24T04:34:00.000-08:00

It has become a Williams Family tradition to deliver these Cinnamon Rolls on Christmas Eve in hopes our friends and family can enjoy them on Christmas Morning! I feed those I love," it's my way"...and the funniest thing is that when we go to the door as a family to deliver them and wish our friends a Merry Christmas, we do not SING!! and everyone thinks we come to "Christmas Carol"...We just say Merry Christmas and give the rolls . It's funny but we have fun and it is something we look forward to doing together every year. Who knows maybe we will break out in Jingle Bells this Year for a twist!! So tonight Connor was my assistant Baker and dough kneader as we were definately knee deep in dough. Tonight we finished the first half and another 7 dozen tomorrow. I am sorry if you are to far away for me to deliver these to your door tomorrow night,I would if I could, but here is my recipe and my sincere wishes for a sweet and doughy Christmas.....Aloha

A Family Heirloom ...the gift of many colors

2009-12-22T22:36:00.000-08:00

What do you give your Mom that has it all. I don't mean everything material, but the things that are important, she has. Now how many Holidays do you pretend slippers,lotion, or a new movie that is on DVD is the perfect fit? She can only wear so many earrings!. What about photos of the kids or family? well she lives with us, so she has those by default. I was just not sure what I was to do for her this year to make it special. Being that she was on her Mission last Christmas and she came home to Hawaii only long enough to help me pack boxes and to contemplate yet another move. I really wanted this Christmas to be memorable. Her spirit was so spiritually grounded, that of a return Missionary and I sure needed that upon her arrival and loved her even more for it. Now I am going to tell you a little bit about My Mom Kathy and My Mother in Law Dottie.After my Father in Law Roger passed away October of 2006,my Mother in Law Dottie had slipped into a Coma the day after his burial.. . Dottie woke up from her nine day Coma on a Tuesday and she remembered me telling her that if she could get well enough to come out of the Hospital, my Mother offered to come and live with her as her care giver so she could be in her own home. My Mom was my Hero in that time of need. You see we were living in Idaho and running a restaurant and 4 kids in school, I could not be in San Francisco with Dottie, but My Mom could .And it was my Mom's idea to do so. So it was a Tuesday night and Dottie had been in the Hospice wing for people who were shutting down.No tubes,no meds, just nurses care. On the 9th day, she woke up around 6pm called for the nurse, asked what day it was, where are her sons and she wanted a diet coke and turn on Dancing With The Stars.!!! And in that order she was on the phone with us and the first thing she asked me was when is my Mother "Kathy" coming to get her out of the Hospital?. Kathy my Mom was on a plane that same week on Friday. She went to the Hospital everyday to be with Dottie, she lived at the house to take care of the daily things like mail, water the plants etc, and get it ready for Dottie's return. Dottie was home within 2 weeks of my Mom's arrival and was able to stay at home with the help of my Mom and in home Nurses that would come weekly. Dottie's stayed home for almost a month, but by Christmas, she had returned to the Hospital due to her failing health,. I know Dottie was very happy to of returned home even for that brief time.You see I promised her she would not have to go to a nursing home and with the love and care of my Mom Kathy, I was able to keep that Promise. Dottie passed away January 4th 2007 in the Hospital. So this afternoon, Makinsee and I put together a Quilt that is made from some of Dottie's silk scarves that she loved to wear . I saved only the ones that were roughly the same size and of good quality. I thought it would mean a little more to my Mom that this Quilt was made from Dottie's scarf collection and from her daughter and Granddaughter. So when you see all the different colors, they do not all match, but they are all silk and full of lovely colors. Dottie loved flowers and colors, especially Red and Vibrant Blues. Dottie's eyes were a gorgeous blue and it was a wonderful contrast to her Raven hair, she was half Swedish and half Hungarian.. Makinsee and I just finished this tonight and it was really good quality time with her especially to teach her the basics of sewing '1A" and I mean basic. But it is the thought right?!?!?! My Mom won't see it until Christmas morning....so shhhhh...keep our Santa secret and I hope she likes it?
DOTTIE AND ROGER 2006

CATCHING THE SUNSET

2009-12-20T23:01:00.000-08:00

IT'S ALWAYS AN ADVENTURE,

TRYING TO CATCH THE SUNSET...........

TOTALLY WORTH THE EFFORT....

I LOVE THE MEN IN MY LIFE...........

NANA LOVES HER GRANDCHILDREN

I FEEL SO BLESSED TO HAVE THESE LOVELY
WOMEN IN MY LIFE
TRAVIS CONNOR AUBREE MAKINSEE
These photos seem to capture what I could never express in words. The love I have for these wonderful people in my life is eternal. If they remember only one thing in their life about me, I really hope it is that I loved them unconditionally. Life is filled with so many distractions, sometimes I think it is easy to forget what the most important things are in our lives. When we feel love, give love,accept love unconditionally..that is all that really matters..

THE COLLECTION CONTINUES

2009-12-18T13:43:00.000-08:00

Makinsee at 11 yrs, 2009

Grandma Dottie at 11yrs ,1947

THE COOKIE CUTTER COLLECTION and cookies in the background.....

Makinsee and I had a great time with the Gingerbread recipe. We used it to make cookies as well as the Williams Ohana house/cottage. So as we pulled out the cookie cutters that I brought from Grandma Dottie's house, I realized that these cutters were really quite vintage and in very good condition. I researched on the net to see just where they might fit in the history of things and it seems they are from the late 40's early fifties. Dottie's Mother Eleanore Wiberg Klein was a fabulous cook. Dottie loved to cook but was ill alot of her married life, so I knew these had to of been from Grandma Eleanore, her Mom's kitchen. Therefore this makes three generations of Cookie Cutters that have survived, so in the Honor of these three women in our family who loved the culinary arts also, I salute them and commit to the continued collection for Makinsee and her kids to have. It was really good quality time with Makinsee, she is excited to bake and loves the kitchen .Good times to be had this Holiday season and of coarse the rest of our family is enjoying the holiday treats too. We think you are awesome "GG"
GREAT GRANDMA ELEANORE 1906-1995

Making SCENTS of a few things

2009-12-17T16:09:00.000-08:00

Today I woke up feeling a little more rested than usual. I am kind of a night owl, that's a nice way of saying I don't sleep much. So, today was a day to bake some french rolls for tonight homemade BLT paninis.I thought I would share the easy recipe, it is a variation of Martha Stewart and Julia Child with my own twist on it:
HOME MADE FRENCH BREAD
1 PACKET YEAST
2 3/4 WARM WATER
1/4C SUGAR

MIX AND LET DISSOLVE
7 C FLOUR
2 TBSP POWDER MILK OR INSTANT CREAMER
4 TSP SALT
mix and blend with wet mixture in a mixer with a dough hook, or by hand.What ever process you are familiar with, knead 4-5 minutes. place soft dough ball in a greased bowl, cover with saran, let rise and double in size, punch down and cut into 4-6 mini loaves let rise 1 hr and bake @ 400 on an greased cookie sheet,4 loaves to a sheet, for 15-20 minutes, should be done when you tap the top and get a hollow sound it is done.Brush with butter and cool on wire racks. I double the recipe because my household of 3 adults and 3 teenagers and 1 preteen are hungry!
This is HOMEMADE Gingerbread Potpourri
2 C BOILING WATER
1/4 C CINNAMON
2 TBSP GINGER
1TBSP ALLSPICE
1TBSP NUTMEG
MIX TOGETHER AND ADD TO YOUR MINI CROCK,
set it by the door or somewhere it will be sure to perfume the air, it takes a few seconds to put together and it smells like hours of intense baking!! the kids came home from school and loved it. They immediately came into the kitchen to examine what smelled so good!! And so, they are ready for dinner now...it's only 2pm!! That's what happens when make scents of a few things that smell divine.

MAKINSEE MERRIMENT

2009-12-17T01:03:00.000-08:00

Our 11 year old Makinsee had to have a Gingerbread house from scratch this year! We baked the gingerbread, made the Royal icing, and had all of the different candies to decorate.We did a FHE night so everyone could be a part of it! I think we have watched to much Food Network because our end product was nothing like we had imagined and we were all glad that we were not being timed or judged!! but we did have fun taking turns, the left side of the roof broke off, the right side caved in, and so on. Aubree and Al had voted to eat the house during the middle of it's construction,Nana was there to assist and oversee the project. 3 rounds of royal icing and 5 lbs of candy.Aubree announced that she would be taking off the roof for her cereal in the morning!! I think Makinsee conquered her task overall .Travis was not home to participate he went to the BYUH FHE last night, but we missed him even though we are glad he is doing the College thing. There was still fun to be had by all and Makinsee was happy.I think I had better study up for next year. Al said my ginger bread dough was to tender, causing it to cave in it's construction,the look on my face told him volumes he said"but it tastes really great!!". So goes the Williams Ohana Ginger Bread house-turned older COTTAGE...for Christmas 2009...Aloha
this is the obvious back of the Gingerbread cottage, you could tell that...right?lol..lol..lol
Travis came home and asked"is this fair game to eat?" so it must not look too bad..hahahaha
We should of added a few surf boards, but she was clearly feeling more traditional and all eatable of coarse!:))

THE VEIL IS THINNER THAN WE THINK!

2009-12-16T01:01:00.000-08:00

I was searching for the Navy picture of Al's Dad , Roger to add to the post I did on Connor.So, when I tried to open the filing cabinet that I had very carefully packed up from Mom and Dads house in South San Francisco with their photos,family history info, collections etc. Anyway when I inserted the key that I thought would open the cabinet I did not realize that when I was turning the key , it would break off int he lock!! did I mention that my Father in law , Roger was a lock smith!lol ...lol, yes I am sure he had a laugh, but Al wasn't laughing as I demanded that he get me into this cabinet at all costs!! So, out came the drill, tools flying and it was best for me to find something else to do, while this adventure was going on .Connor was brave enough to stick it out in the garage with Al.OK, so when the cabinet was free and at my disposal, I immediately came across this photo still in it's frame. I thought it was so perfect to put out in our Hauula home. How perfect for Mom and Dad to be dressed in island attire.I felt a little Christmas Aloha from them as I put it down in front of Al's computer. We miss them alot, they died 3 months apart to the day.Dad passed away at home from a stomach aneurysm on Thursday around noon, October 4Th,2006 and Mom passed in her sleep on January 4ht about 1pm in the hospital.She said she did not want her sons to lose both of their parents in the same year. So she kept to her word as she always did.It was Feb in 2006 that we all celebrated their 50Th wedding anniversary,they were very happy and it was a very nice evening.Little did we know that was their last celebration together here as Dad was gone by that Oct.!! funny how life is sometimes, you just never know what is up ahead, but we do know that Families are forever and the Veil is much thinner than we think! the photo from left to right , Al, bro-Mike, Dottie and Roger Williams Family. 2006.Aloha...

My Bucket List!

2009-12-12T01:07:00.000-08:00

Yes It is true!! I have a bucket list that I have compiled and actually written out in black and white.Am I going to publish it on my blog?, well I haven't decided? I have however decided to share in this post that as of this week I have started to write a book that I hope to have published through DESERET BOOK Co.. OK, this goal of writing and publishing a book is on my Bucket list. I am really excited about it. I am trying to do a lot of research about writing a book as I write, so that hopefully it will be something worthy of publishing. My criteria is as follows. I am writing about what I know to be true in my life. So it is a non-fictional story of my journey in searching for my Hawaiian Heritage.My Father was half Hawaiian and half Dutch, born on the island of Oahu. His Father divorced his Hawaiian Mother after they survived the bombing of Pearl Harbor in 1942. My Father was around 9 years old when he last saw his mother and the islands of Hawaii. My Father's journey in life without his Mother and Hawaiian Heritage present in his life, set me on my journey to uncover his past, the Mother he never knew and his lineage from the land of his Mother and my Kapuna(Grandmother). I too was missing my Heritage, I had to know who and where my Father came from. I am the link for my Hawaiian ancestors to my posterity. This opportunity is an honor...The name of my book is...
A Daughter Of Hawaii. That is all I can share for now.... All my Aloha

AHOY....CONNOR

2009-12-09T00:26:00.001-08:00

Connor is so FUNNY!! OK,I send Connor and Makinsee out to the garage to get the Christmas lights out for decorating and the next thing I know, he is into Grandpa Rogers Navy Uniforms from the Korean War!! Connor absolutely loves these uniforms and is thrilled that they fit him perfectly.The scary part is that Connor is only 14 and Roger was 18 when he wore these.Wow Roger was very thin or Connor is a moose or both! Anyway, we all had a good giggle and Connor liked them so much he had me wash the white sets(3).So there I was washing Navy uniforms that are 50 years old or so?.I told Connor that he is not to get any crazy ideas about the military until he has finished school at least . Boys??... give them a uniform and they go nuts!!! loved it though, I'm sure Roger had to be around for this one. I know he loved Connors enthusiam. We sure miss Mom and Dad.Fun to keep their memories alive, especially through the kids. Connor will not be setting sail anytime soon...but we love his humor! funny kid! Anchors away.....

Awesome Sunday in Paradise...

2009-12-07T00:58:00.000-08:00

Today, on the way home from church, my son Travis said "Why does the ocean always look better on Sunday"? I thought maybe because we take the time to look and appreciate it rather than knowing every other day of the week we can be in it and on Sunday we observe it.Hmmm??
On Sundays I try to make comfort foods and delicious desserts for the kids to look forward to. It is a day to worship and spend quality family time together. Today we had Kalua Pork and cabbage, rice, potato,caramelized onion and bacon casserole. Cherry cheese pie and Rocky Road fudge pie. Everyone loved it and had a second round after their naps from breaking our fast! We love to watch AFV & Extreme Home makeovers together..it never fails, when it gets teary..one of the kids always checks to see if I am balling too!! Every time like clock work they love to tease me..I think it chokes them up too, they just like to turn the attention to me..that's OK, I love the show and it always feels good to think about the community and people who are in need. So we closed the evening with FHE and we discussed our upcoming Christmas plans. It was great to hear every ones thoughts and desires. I am looking forward to it. I had the kids take all the boxes to the garage, re arranged a few things and so there is plenty of room for a tree, they want to put the lights up after school tomorrow! So, Christmas in Hauula is ON!! Williams style...this will be the last Christmas that we will be all together for the next 2 years while Travis is on his Mission. It seems to make things all the sweeter. As excited as we are for him to set out on this awesome journey in his life, it impacts each one of our family members as well as our Family unit as a whole.Our Ohana is very grateful to have this time together in Paradise..Aloha nui loa

It was TOUGH Day!

2009-12-02T21:43:00.000-08:00

This is the ocean out in front of my home the first picture is looking to the left of my home and the second is looking to the right towards Laie . I found out today that we are not closing escrow in Idaho until the end of December!! so it is Christmas in boxes...but a friend of mine reminded me to be creative and that it could always be worse, and then a friend said bust out and make some christmas cookies!! it was tempting but i am still trying to get some weight off..so as I walked out to this spot on the shore..I was taken back by the overall beauty of the day..truly it was lovely. I put my feet in the water..so warm and clear. Yes it could always get tougher..I was glad to be soothed by the weather and the warm sand that clung to my feet as I headed back to my house full of boxes..oh well!! we will get through it....we always do..PS tomorrow is Travis's 19Th Birthday! wow..I love you my Son!

MIRACLE MOMENTS ON BLACK FRIDAY!

2009-11-27T21:30:00.001-08:00

OK, this is the crew that headed to the Mall today to shop during Black Friday...They had Al's Cadillac and doesn't it figure the starter goes out! Travis happens to be the Captain of the crew as Al and I stayed home to relax and enjoy some traditional leftovers!!yum..anyway
all the kids were stuck together as Travis had to go to the Sears automotive center and negotiate the repairs to the car! with a few phone calls to Al, Travis managed to coordinate this motley crew of shoppers, feed them and keep them all happy and together while the car was fixed and then drove them all safely home! Travis was very pleased with his successes of this adventure as well as his excellent shopping buys of the day!! who knew I raised a man that could multi task???Well as I thanked him for his good works I couldn't help but smile with gratitude that he managed this and did not lose his temper!! I guess he is a little more like his Dad than I realized. It was a very interesting experience and due to my BMW in the shop for repairs as well, it left me feeling a little helpless, but Travis really did manage well I am definitely noting this miracle moment and thanking HF for watching over them!!

Missionary Maddness

2009-11-23T14:42:00.000-08:00

Ok, here are a few shots from our Missionary home comming with Nana.She really had a wonderful time in SLC ,we were able to attend here mission reunion for North Chicago in Provo, dinner with family in SLC and more family up in the Canyon in SLC,shopping at Steinmart and rounding it out with General conference, just to name a few highlights, her arrival in Honolulu was a warm salty breeze and clear skies.So good to have her home! this is my October 2009 entry...just a little late !Aloha

Club'n it!!

2009-11-22T23:35:00.000-08:00

So fun to BBQ with friends at the Kaneohe Bay Yacht club! We were all together and we really had a nice time..time seems to be ticking by for Travis, he has his papers turned into the Bishop,we are awaiting the final interviews before they are submitted to Salt Lake. I wish he knew how much he will be missed, but time is the best teacher in many ways. The evening was very nice and we Thank the Kehauolopua Family for including us. We hope to see them again before we leave. Mahalo

California here we come..right back where we started from!

2009-11-17T19:22:00.000-08:00

TEMECULA,CA begins 2010
Yes it looks like we are waving Aloha to our island of Oahu at the end of 2009..it is bittersweet for me, how blessed I feel to of been able to be here in Hawaii...The highlights for me are as follows :
We arrived April,3 2008...I was blissfully happy, I will never forget how I felt that day. I was home to live in the land of my Father.The excitement within our family was truly joyous!! it was a new chapter..a new place..new friends...a fresh ocean with warm water and cool salty breezes..The Temple...the beach...BYU Hawaii..my Hawaiian genealogy..the beach...exploring new places..and luxury real estate... Yes it was the dawn of a new time in the Williams Family truly in Paradise. The real estate was fun while it lasted..the economy took care of that party!! I joined the BYUH Womens Org and I absolutely loved it..I was voted in as 2008-09 Vice President in chair for 09-10 Presidency. It was not meant to be for leading this fine group of Women in 09-10 but I am so honored to of been in the VP role and to be a part of their service.I was also inducted to the Daughters of Hawaii for January 2010. I am honored to be a part of this group as well, one must prove their Hawaiian lineage to be a member.Travis swam with Dolphins became an Eagle Scout and graduated High School and turned in his Mission papers, Travis & Aubree joined a modeling agency in Honolulu, Travis also coached BYUH Cheer.
Aubree turned 16 and had her friends at a hotel sleepover and swim party in Waikiki, Malia, Mahie and Summer they are great friends. She cheered & coached for Kahuku H.S. cheer, she took Stats for football for Damian High School a private school, she learned to dance Tahitian and Hula, learned to speak Hawaiian and got her permit to drive and . Connor played for Pop Warner and Kahuku JV they won the state Championship, he learned to surf ,speak Hawaiian and got his Patriarchal Blessing. Makinsee joined a youth choir, learned to surf,snorkel and photography, she made lots of new friends swam with Dolphins and learned to fish.I too swam with her and the Dolphins...it was magical...Nana came home from her mission here and relaxed and slept in for a change...she loves the beach and the sun,good books, movies and computer solitaire. I am not saying goodbye...but Aloha...for the islands will always be home for me....

PONDERING IN PARADISE

2009-08-20T17:06:00.000-07:00

This seems to be a time of transition . Travis is heading to BYUH and submitting his paper for his Mission.Aubree is a Junior in HS and thinking about her future, she thinks she would like to attend Fashion Institute and Merchandising in Calif. Connor is completely submerged in football and HS a a freshman he can't wait to be a sophomore. Makinsee is in her last year in elementary school and is sure that someone has made a mistake and she should be in Junior High!!!
Nana is coming home at the end of next month and so we will all be together for such a short moment, when Travis leaves, it will be a new chapter for everyone.We are really hoping our commercial building and restaurant sells this year!! We are pondering about buying a home....
We just aren't sure it will be here in Hawaii. Although we love Hawaii, we really miss the quality of living on the mainland. We can also own a home on the mainland and be debt free.
So we are pondering our options, the kids are fine whatever we decide,a few of them would really like southern California, again but we have to solidify work.....we shall see....lots of prayer and pondering...

Views from our deck

2009-06-27T13:46:00.000-07:00

Gratitude and Attitude

2009-06-27T12:53:00.000-07:00

Sorry it has been a month since I have posted in my blog. We are finally moved into a home right on the water!! loving it, amazing how much seeing the water from my front window affects my attitude. The water seems to bring me a comfort and level of peace and Gratitude that centers me. I am much more aware of being in a state of gratitude and humility. I think that the Ocean is a part of me. My childhood was centered around it. My Father loved the ocean and we spent a lot of time sailing,fishing,body surfing together.My Dad has been gone for 20 years now, but the connection we have is tied together in awesome memories of the quality time we spent together with the SEA.
I Miss you Dad...... love me

Full Circle

2009-05-16T12:45:00.000-07:00

I love this beach!!
It is perfect not to crowded,clear water and perfect for snorkeling,and excellent location in North Shore. It seems that when I am at the beach I am grounded and really quite happy.I think because I grew up on the Ocean and so it feels very home-like. I have an immediate sense of peace.... It is amazing to me how important it has become.I guess because my world is filled with so many different things now verses when I was a kid growing up, that I treasure my moments with the ocean whenever I can..it's my new North Shore office!!lol..So in many ways I have come full circle and it feels good to be home again......Aloha

Mothers Day MAY

2009-05-11T19:49:00.001-07:00

Loved the flowers, the breakfast in bed and spending time with my family

April Showers

2009-04-22T00:30:00.000-07:00

We have had an incredible amount of Rain this season! Hawaii seems to be sunny and rainy all in the same day, pretty typical.But this season has been especially wet. We went to the beach on Saturday all of us except Al, he had to work.But Saturday was a picture perfect Hawaiian Day.82 degrees, slight breeze, water was turquoise and clear. The next 3 days absolutely poured sheets of rain.This bird of paradise is a reminder to me how fabulous the Hawaiian Islands are.Even when it pours, it is still the most lovely place to be.Paradise....

A Miracle Moment

2009-04-14T14:56:00.000-07:00

21 MILLION DOLLARS WILL BUY YOU THIS KAILUA ESTATE!

So why am I writing about this! Well last Saturday, April 11, on my sweet Traci's Bday, I had a client walk into my office as I was working floor duty at the time and inquire about this listing we have!He is from New York, staying in Honolulu for 6 weeks and wants to buy a home. He is interested in this home and a few other one's we have as well. And when I asked him his range, he said"I don't have one" So that was my MIRACLE MOMENT!!! I am scheduled to show him multiple properties on the 22nd, next week.!I am calm, cool and FREAK"N STOKED!!!

It is every Realtors DREAM CLIENT!! who doesn't have a range? I'll tell you who, multi bazillionares who can buy what ever they want when they want and THEY DO!! Pray for me!!

The Heat is ON!!!!

2009-04-09T15:09:00.000-07:00

Well this photo is NOT me but it sure is how I feel!!! why because I am blogging about my new Health program.I have decided to only show the after pics. No Before pic's but this phot makes me laugh.Anyway, I have an 8pd. loss in 6 days so far.I am really excited!!

I am drinking a gallon of water a day, 2 protien drinks 1 in the am and 1mid day and a salad, and a healthy dinner with the family!

Ok, did I mention the 2 mile walk every night at 5:30 with a few friends from my ward. That has been a great support to meet up with other people, it would be so easy to velcro my toosh to the couch and chill!!

I will reach my goal by Sept 30th of this year! I will be going to SLC to get my Mom and I want to see if she recognizes me?

I haven't done this regime since 2000 when I lost a hundred pounds after having all the kids!! I actually lost a little to much weight, but trust me it didn't take long to adjust that problem.

And so, I will try not to bore everyone with the weight loss drama and this is not to make anyone else feel guilty!! I just thought if I blogged it than I am really committed to it now!!

It is interesting how the kids a re reacting to it also. They really want Al to get on the program, so he can live longer and feel better. It is so easy to get out of shape and not eat healthy! yeah me and the rest of America!!

Well, I feel better for blogging it and wish me luck, I will check back in at my 20 pound mark!

So goodbye chubs and hello Hunnie!

Will I Survive These Teenagers????

2009-04-01T00:37:00.000-07:00

It seems to be so very Bitter Sweet....somehow finally getting them all to an age that they are old enough to have some fun with me and have good conversations seeming like a very sweet time, but then it becomes only a moment!

The next thing I know I am referee with flying arms and legs keeping them all in separate corners . As soon as that quiets down the cell phones are ringing from text messages coming in, Who has to be where, who needs a ride, who can catch a ride, who's picking up who,who needs to be dropped off oh and my favorite "what time will you be home"?

My wallet has become an open invitation for what ever the need is at the moment! Bus money,gas money,lunch money,movie money,taco bell and every other fast food that crosses their path and of coarse the ever famous 7-11, how can they not have pork hash or musubi? For you mainlanders who would never consider eating fast food at a 7-11, only in Hawaii do they cater in hot local food, at first I was very afraid!! but surprisingly, it really is good and fresh, but don't try it anywhere but Hawaii...and don't forget"do you have any gum?"

No sooner I find a quiet moment at home where I don't have to be anywhere or do anything, there is a thump of the base on our surround sound vibrating the walls as loud as possible coming from the digital music they are playing on the flat screen? Now I have always loved music, and I know how to shake it!!! but, do you think these teenagers enjoy Mom dancing? oh no, they laugh and then scream out as if to be in pain, MOM WE HAVE NEIGHBORS!!!

How about when we are arriving home from work and they all want a friend to come over! OK, that sounds fine, but then as soon as we agree, Al and I are asked to retire to our bedroom where the other wide screen is so they can have the family room to entertain!?!? you know I never thought to have the party at my house when I was a teenager, but then again, my parents would of never given up the family room either...lol

We love that they want their friends to come over, and we really wouldn't have it any other way.

It is a good feeling when they are having fun just hanging out at home and comfortable to have friends over too..

I love it

It really becomes interesting when the 2 younger ones have friends over to play wii or xbox or guitar hero, then somehow they all seem to join in no matter what the age... but then the raid is on my refrigerator..last week I baked 4 loaves of bread a pan of rolls(30) 4trays of blueberry scones with a lemon glace ( 30),1 large bundt carrot cake with butter cream glaze and 4 dozen chocolate choc chip cookies, you know the chewy buttery kind. It looked like Christmas came early! OK, gone in 2 days, the third day left a trail of bread for toast and a slice of cake, but that was it!Wow, Al was amazed, he gets no special treatment when it comes to any leftovers, it's every man for himself!! I said, hellooooooooooo they are teenagers, and the girls can eat as good as the guys!! Their friends ask when I am baking? soooo love it!!

Not sure I am going to have an easy time getting thin and cooking for the Army but it's all good because I honestly know that this is such a brief moment in all of our lives, to share this time together, before our family changes again, Travis graduates,leaves on a mission, Nana comes home....and so life changes again, never to be the same, but that is what being in the journey is all about.. accepting change and enjoying the moments...because that's all we really have..

And life goes on.....

SENIOR PROM 09 FAB FRIDAY

2009-03-28T02:46:00.000-07:00

Wow, what a fun DAY!! As a Mother I actually took the time to smell the roses today and soak in the fun with my kids.

I had 4 hair appointments with Aubree's and Travis's friends to do their hair. Aubree did their makeup. Aubree is excited to go next year!

So, we had a wonderful time with the girls getting them ready, having their Mom's come over and be a part of the fun too.

Gosh time sure flies when you are having fun,but I took a moment to be grateful for the moments of laughter and watching all the kids joke and celebrate...Really a great time! The entire school gathered on the LDS Laie LDS Temple grounds to get into their Ultra Stretch Limos and take them to Waikiki to the Hotel for the Prom and then bring them back to North Shore.

actually got a call from the girls at the prom who loved their hair and they thanked me for the fun day! Well I'd say it was a success...

sigh of relief until next time.....Another Fabulous Friday of Beauty at it's BEST!! The Prom photos to follow....hopefully soon!

Finding Joy in the Journey

2009-03-17T12:53:00.000-07:00

As I have been studying for this lesson to give in RS on Sunday, I can't help but ponder some of the statements given by President Monson.

"The difference between the changes in my life and the changes in your life is only in the details."

Time never stands still!

"If you pile u enough tomorrows,you will find you have collected alot of empty yesterdays."

He suggests"relish life as we live it,find joy in the journey and share our love with friends and family.One day each of us will run out of tomorrows."

I am grateful for my journey. I am learning so much along the way. I see that the most important thing is to cherish my blessings and be mindful of them each day.The lesson reminds me that both abundance and lack of abundance abide simultaneously in our lives as parallel realities. It's always our conscious choice which secret garden we will tend......?

Being able to Blog allows me to share my thoughts, but also journal.This is thrilling for me to be able to finally journal.

SPEAKING MY LANGUAGE!

2009-03-13T20:03:00.000-07:00

Would you believe both Connor and Aubree Speak Hawaiian?They are taking it as a foreign language in school.I am in shock that Hawaiian is now considered a foreign language?This shot of them Aubree took herself.Aubree is happy in front of a camera and Connor is happy to just be around pretty girls. Aubree always has her friends over, so Connor is in heaven.Connor is totally involved with Sports. He is the next Kahuku Raider!! That is everything here in North Shore. Aubree is back into Cheer for the High School. Travis is JV coach for the cheer team as well. The kids are really loving it here. I am so thankful for that.We are definitely in our journey.We are excited summer hoping to have visitors! Aloha and Mahalo

CSI HAWAII !! LDS STYLE

2009-03-07T17:55:00.001-08:00

OK, this is about Al on Friday!!
He goes to the bank and cashes a well awaited check for $2250. We are grateful for the opportunity to make a deposit in between 7 more escrows closing. OK,
so as the cashier is counting out the cash, she says her thanks and as Al is gathering the bills he says, you know you better count this again! She gave him a puzzled look and said why? and he said it's not right! So, as she counted out the hundred dollar bills she was irritated that he had questioned her,she counted out $3250. She thought the check said$ 3250, not$ 2250. so she was off $1,000.
She thanked Al for catching the mistake, but was bewildered at the same time.Not sure that she understood what had just happened and that a customer was making her take back $1,000.!!!!
So Al was on his way home and stops at a busy intersection ,5 o'clock traffic and sees a man with a small sign that reads HUNGRY. Al catches his gaze and the light turns green. He then gets a strong impression to feed that man. so with the strong whisper, Al flips a u turn pulls through MC' D's and gets him a Big mac meal. Still in a stupor thinking this guy won't still be there??? So sure enough Al pulls back up to the signal and this time the light is green, but he makes a complete stop, rolls down the window and holds up the Bag to the man. Al said he thought the Man was going to Cry, he humbly took the bag and thanked Al repeatedly as he cradled it like a delicate breakable and walked away....Not one car had honked, they all had waited patiently???
Al drove off with a beep and a wave, he then called me to tell me of his experiences on his journey home.
Well we all sat to the table together over dinner and listened to Al tell his tale of events to the kids. It was probably the best night we have had all together in a long, long,long time! Al said he felt tested the entire day, and he was so humbled by his choices, I think I fell for him, all over again, Darn IT!!

The Clouds In The Sky....

2009-03-04T13:29:00.000-08:00

Why is it that we always want clear skies? Today I am working at 909 Kapiolani and the sky is filled with these billowy white puffs that seem to float by... Gorgeous and yet some are lined with a little silver! could that mean rain? well we all know living here in Hawaii that rain is just part of the day. I love it, the mountains have an Emerald Green shimmer painted against the turquoise water is truly paradisaical!

I guess in the analogy of life, it could be said that we should maybe look at the things in our life that have clouds and why? Is to teach us,to irritate,hinder, or blind us.

Well I guess if we only choose to see when the sky is clear, then clouds will always be a problem.

But it seems to me that if we really stop!! and take a look at the days when clouds seem to be present and identify their purpose, then we have clarity no matter what!

OK that is my AHA moment of the Day!

I sure like this blogging, I actually look forward to it!

Scary...

TRYING TO CATCH UP!

2009-03-03T11:35:00.000-08:00

Aloha ,
it has been trying to be able to catch up from having the flu! From what I am told living on the island for the first year or 2 can be hard building up immunities from all of the international traffic that comes to the island. I seem to get the worst of it in our family. The kids have all had sore throats or a minor cough but it will knock me down. Probably because I am usually the most stressed out of us all and I am sure that doesn't help!
So, I am back up and at it hard trying to catch up, the weather is drizzly with lots of wind, this week has been the coldest since I have lived here, huh, still high 60's is fantastic.
At work one of my associates had a turtleneck on, I tried not to giggle, but until you live Idaho winter, you really don't know cold.burrrrrrrrrrrr....
So grateful to not be there, and truly happy to be here. Work is going, we are praying hard for our building to sell in Idaho. We would really like to close that Idaho chapter! soon!!
My Mom is doing well on her Mission in Chicago.
Hoping for a successful week for us all....

Ez Breezy Dayz

2009-02-25T13:37:00.000-08:00

Today is gorgeous!, as it should be in paradise...
I have a touch of the stomach flu, thought is a 24 hr deal but no luck,
so I am resting trying to catch up. Al has his 7th escrow this year!! he is doing great, I love selling Real Estate here too!

The kids are looking forward to school being over in a couple of months.
Travis is excited for his Graduation!, he has his Eagle scout as of November 2008, and is preparing to serve a Mission for our Church at the end of the Year . He will return and attend a University of his choice, he is thinking of BYU Provo,Hawaii and University of Utah.

Travis is currently working construction for our neighbor,a coach for gymnastics at a local club and he is also coaching the JV Cheer team at Kahuku High School, he is dating a cute girl named Aubree she is a senior as well, she Cheers and is the Team Captain for the Tennis Team. She is fun and loves to be with Travis,she is a member of our church too, so it is great that they have mutual things in common.We are all feeling a sense of time passing quickly and we will not be the same while Travis is away, but we are so very proud of his decisions and who he has become.He really is a great friend a loving son and brother. I know 2009 is a year he will never forget.

Aloha Friday

2009-02-20T23:55:00.000-08:00

Aloha Friday's,

That is usually when everyone sets up for the weekend,usually the water is filled with surfers as I make my way up the Kahekili Hwy towards home..it has to be the most beautiful drive I have ever done.Yeah my commute is a real sweat!!haha,believe it or not, most of the people in Honolulu would never consider commuting to North shore, but I love it ,it is a 50 minute drive from door to door and it is pure paradise, Turquoise ocean,emerald mountains banana,mango,papaya,coconut trees,palm trees and the list goes on...did I mention I love Hawaii?

Another Day In Paradise

2009-02-19T16:00:00.000-08:00

Aloha,

we have almost been in Hawaii for a year, it has been incredible

I cannot express the joy I have in my heart to live in the land of my ancestors.I begin each day with a prayer of gratitude in my heart for all that I have in my life and the wonderful friends and family I have to share it with. I hope all of you know you are welcome to visit anytime, we would love to have you.I am hoping this blog will help me keep up with my comunication and updates with you all!love to hear from you

all our Aloha Nui,

Brandi &Family