The Hadder Family

Eric's Mission Call

2012-01-25T21:10:00.000-07:00

Last Friday, Eric opened his official Mission Call from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. He has been called to serve in the Micronesia Guam mission! He reports to the Missionary Training Center in Salt Lake City on June 13, 2012.

We are so proud of Eric and his willingness to serve. He will be halfway through his Junior year at Arizona State University in Aerospace Engineering when he leaves for two years, but he felt very impressed to serve and we are really looking forward to sharing in his stories and experiences from Guam and Micronesia.

We love you Eric. Congratulations!

Bryanna Michelle Hadder

2011-04-07T07:48:00.000-07:00

Bryanna has blossomed in 2011. She really enjoys attending Mountain View High School taking Seminary and accelerated classes. She just posted a cum GPA of 4.6. She played Varsity soccer this year, and her club soccer team, Gilber Arsenal 96 Girls Premier Black, had an awesome year! They won or was first runner up in every tournament they played except one. The just won the Presidents Cup, which means they will represent Arizona in the girls 96 category in Regionals held in June 2011 in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Bryanna is a fiercely determined, intelligent and kind young lady. We knew when she was born she would turn out to be someone special. And she is.

Serena's Soccer Game

2010-10-30T21:23:00.000-07:00

We got to see Serena play soccer this weekend! I forgot how cute the little kids are....how the ball is chased around the field and little legs do their best to keep up! Watching her play reminded me of Bryanna and her early soccer days. Snack lists, banners, parent tunnels for the kids to run under while the onlookers yell encouragement. What a fun day we had. Thanks Mary & Rey for letting us share this Saturday with Serena and Holly.

Happy 15th Birthday Bryanna

2010-09-25T22:51:00.000-07:00

What could be better than a girl with her daddy? Darrell took Bryanna to Roy's to celebrate her 15th Birthday. A daddy daughter date. It.was.amazing. Happy Birthday cute girl. We love you so much!

Max the Wolf

2010-09-23T20:30:00.000-07:00

We were so proud of Max tonight when he got his Wolf badge! He was excited to earn his award and see his friends. I got to be with one of my favorite friends, Erin Deller, and her son Max, so the night was fun. Go Max - you are on your way to Bear.

New Mexico Tournament

2010-09-07T19:13:00.001-07:00

Bryanna's new team, Arsenal '96 Select, came in 2nd place in their very first tournament of the season in New Mexico over the Labor Day Weekend. We really enjoyed watching the whole team rise to the ocassion. Bryanna only allowed 1 goal in 4 games...and she was mad about that goal! The whole family got to go spend a week together. We had a blast! Go Bryanna, we are so proud of you.

Junior Flag Football Champs

2010-05-22T18:48:00.002-07:00

Max had his first team experience playing for I-9 Sports junior flag football. The players ranged in age from 8-12, and his team chose the name "The AllStars". And boy were they ever! They went undefeated and won the championship today. Max was so proud! I am so happy he got to be the star for once. What a great experience for him.

Brimhall Academic Excellence Award 2010

2010-05-18T21:35:00.000-07:00

We were a proud family tonight as we attended Brimhall Jr. High's award ceremony and watched Bryanna receive the highest award for academic excellence. She is both an athlete and a scholar. Bryanna, you are truly an amazing young lady and we are so grateful to have you in our family.

My Mother's Day

2010-05-04T20:42:00.002-07:00

Mother's Day conjures up many images....flowers, your family all gathered at the table, a wonderful dinner, presents, adoring faces.

My perfect Mother's Day conjures up this image:

Nothing like the smell of Six Flags Magic Mountain with my kids for Mother's Day weekend. Bring it on!

My 4 Cute Friends

2010-04-15T21:09:00.003-07:00

I was sad to move from my old Ward. Sad to think that I would lose touch with friends that I had grown to love, friends that knew me and my trials. But we have this pact to gather for each other's birthday over dinner and catch up. And we do it - not just plan it or say "we should get together". We actually DO it, and I love it. Tonight was another link in the happy chain.

Mary, Marci, Tiffany & Amanda - you guys are awesome and I love you. Thanks for being my 4-ever 4 friends.

Take it to the House!

2010-04-05T16:54:00.005-07:00

So you know how you want your story to go? Those perfect moments that you hope for, and sometimes, just sometimes they happen? Those stories you know no one will believe because they sound like a plot lifted off of Lifetime channel? Well we experienced such a moment and I can only tell you it happened. For real.

Max is on a flag football team with boys between the ages of 8-12, all mixed together. This is a winning team, with a huge experienced coach that has two strapping sons playing for him. They win. That's what this team does. And Max has been put on the team.

The last play of his very first official flag football game, the quarterback is looking to throw the ball. All the usual receivers are covered, and there is only one little boy unmanned. Standing pretty much unprotected because he's not a threat. And besides, he is 18-20 yards away from the quarterback. But a play has to be made, so he must take a chance on the little guy. My Max.

And the ball goes through the air. And the sideline holds its collective breath as the scrawny kid takes two hesitant steps towards the arching ball. And he CATCHES IT, takes a couple steps over the goal line and MAKES A TOUCHDOWN!

I am not sure who was more excited...Max or his coach. He kept yelling that Max "took it to the House". If he NEVER catches another ball or NEVER makes another touchdown, he did this time. This moment in time that sounds like a sappy Lifetime movie about the triumph of an autistic kid. This moment that no one not actually there would ever believe. This moment no can take away from him.

Mad Max the Football Player

2010-03-04T07:36:00.002-07:00

It started with his teacher's appreciation for the Steelers. And Eric and Rey going to the Cardinal's game. And us cheering Kurt Warner and Larry Fitzgerald through the season. For Christmas, Santa delivered a full-on Miami Dolphins football uniform (he loves dolphins). The months since Christmas have seen Max in full gear practicing to be a football player, calling out "plays" in the living room, and pestering everyone to throw him some catches. I think this kid is motivated.

So Max will play Spring 2010 Flag Football. He is super excited and so are we. Max has watched Bryanna play sports and although he expressed interest in soccer, we want him to have his own game. Besides, at this level we think flag football is the best fit. He can totally understand "get open so they can throw the ball to you and you catch and run like the wind over the goal line and don't let anyone pull your flag". He has been playing at recess with the other boys every day.

I have signed up to be team mom and overall helper. I guess my cowbell is gonna see more play time!

Brimhall Track Team

2010-02-24T16:30:00.004-07:00

Come help us cheer Bryanna as she competes on the Freshman team in the 200m, 400m, 75m hurdles and long jump. All meets start at 4 pm. Her schedule is below:

Thur Feb 25th at Brimhall
Sat Mar 6 Brimhall Invitational at Brimhall
Thur Mar 11 at Powell Jr. High
Wed Mar 31 at Brimhall
Sat Apr 10 Kino Relays at Kino Jr. High
Thu Apr 15 at Brimhall
Sat Apr 24 City Meet (place to be announced)

Guess my cowbell is gonna start ringing again!

The Same Yet Different

2010-02-08T07:48:00.004-07:00

As a parent, sometimes you get a chance to contemplate your children. In between the necessities of making dinner, running errands and taxi driving, you get an opportunity to ponder the little people who run your life.

Lately, I have been thinking about how different my children are. Each has their own unique quirks, thoughts, desires and interests. It is fun to watch them develop according to their own timeline.

Eric is all about math, physics, flight, time travel. He will delight in explaining the how and why of things to anyone who will listen. He puts his papers in for his mission in March- his life is about to change big time.

Bryanna is all about school, reading and sports. If she isn't on the soccer field, she can be found in a Barnes and Noble snuggled into a chair reading a book. I know she is aware boys exist, but right now she hasn't found a reason to care.

Max loves math too - this is the seemingly only link between our kids besides the last name. He will talk your ear off about multiplication and grouping and a book called Diary of a Wimpy Kid.

If you don't have a testimony of the premortal, then have kids. As you watch them grow and develop, you will come to realize they started on their own path long before you were trusted to guide them. I strive to do the best job I can. It is such a privilege to be a parent and partner with Heavenly Father. It has been the best part of my life.

Rainy Game Memories

2010-01-20T07:39:00.003-07:00

I have thoroughly enjoyed watching Bryanna play soccer this year for Mountain View. She has fought through injuries (3 stitches, broken thumb in two places, lower back strain) and emerged a better player. Last night it rained slightly for the JV Team - and although they didn't win, it is always enjoyable to watch your child play. We decided to stay for the Varsity game, and we were rewarded with rain. Lots and lots of rain. Buckets of rain. And it made Bryanna and I snuggle up together under a too-small umbrella and laugh and sing. We sang to the warm up songs, we cheered our team, we held hands to keep warm, and this mom was in heaven.

On second thought, I don't think I mind the rain. Let it come again.

Happy New Year 2010

2010-01-03T22:17:00.003-07:00

We had such a wonderful Christmas time with my sister Mary and her family for the second year in a row! We are hoping this is a tradition - we had so much fun. RockBand (Mary was getting good on guitar), the endless rounds of Spades (Mom and Mary were this year's big winners), Taboo, Outburst, Balderdash, Martinez visit to the Grand Canyon, Paranormal Activity movie, marathon Criminal Minds and Twilight Zone, New Year's Eve. We laughed, cried and had a wonderful time. If you could have heard our Christmas Eve carols or saw our super great pajamas, you would have wished you could be there! You haven't LIVED until you have heard us sing Christmas carols in three different keys all at the same time!

This is Eric's last Christmas before his mission (he puts in his papers in April), so we wanted it to be a special one. And Mary and Rey made it wonderful. I love my seester!

Investment in Education - Always a Great Payoff

2009-12-22T07:15:00.004-07:00

This wonderful son of mine just got STRAIGHT A's his first semester at ASU in the Aerospace Engineering program. Calculus, Chemistry and lab, Intro to Mechanical Engineering....all A's! He even managed to get an A+ in a weighted class, so his GPA is actually 4.3
Way to go Eric! Keep this up and you will get a scholarship and placement in the masters program for sure (you have to have a 3.6 GPA to be accepted in the masters program). We are so proud of you! So worth the $4,000 tuition a semester. We believe in education.

Mountain View JV Girl's Soccer Schedule

2009-12-01T06:45:00.007-07:00

Bryanna's very first game is today - in Tucson! So we will all wish her good luck and hear about the highlights later.

Bryanna's JV game schedule is listed below. JV plays at 4:00 and Varsity right after. All home games are played in the stadium at Mountain View (2700 E. Brown Road). We invite anyone who loves soccer or just wants to support Bryanna to come to her games. She will be playing Sweeper and Goal Keeper. Go #22! Hope to see you there!

Dec 14 (Home) Hamilton (this should be a great game)
Dec 18 (Home) Deer Valley
Jan 5 (Away) Mesa
Jan 6 (Home) Cibola
Jan 8 (Away) Dobson
Jan 19 (Home) Higley
Jan 22 (Away) Gilbert
Jan 26 (Away) Westview
Jan 29 (Home) Basha

More Patriot Cup Pictures

2009-11-10T20:57:00.001-07:00

Bryanna as keeper

Awards ceremony with Coach Jim and Coach Mike

Patriot Cup Champions

2009-11-09T06:57:00.003-07:00

Congratulations to Bryanna's team, MSC United 96 for winning the Patriot Cup this weekend! Many years they came in second, but this year they dominated first! Bryanna played her favorite position, sweeper,for most of the tournament. That is the last defensive player guarding the goal before the goal keeper. She even managed to make a goal from that position! She also played midfield for one half game, where she scored a goal and the other half of the game she played goal keeper. She punted a return ball 3/4's of the way across the field, where the forward striker kicked once and made the score. Goalie-assisted goals are pretty rare in girl's soccer....Go Bryanna!

We look forward to cheering her on the JV Team at Mountain View starting in December. For a calendar of her games, click here.

Bryanna's 2009 Tennis Season

2009-10-31T19:06:00.000-07:00

Bryanna's last minute decision to join the Brimhall 9th Grade Tennis Team was a good one. She learned a lot about the game and had a chance to compete. She did extremely well - losing only one match all season. Brimhall won their division, which is quite unusual for Brimhall sports! Bryanna made it to the City Meet, where she met her match with the #1 girls from Stapley and Poston Jr. High. She lost, but made it to the Consolation Match where she WON! She got a medal for her efforts, and the tennis season is officially over. She tries out for Mountain View soccer team next week. Good luck Bryanna - we look forward to watching her kick it as a Toro. Go Bryanna!

Pumpkins Stream of Consciousness

2009-10-05T17:17:00.005-07:00

The weather is FINALLY getting nice...and I am thinking of spice, fall and pumpkins.

Initially, I think this:

Which morphs into this:

Which reminds me of Smashing Pumpkins - LOVE this song (click on it to hear): SIVA

America's Got a Bailout...for Kevin Skinner

2009-09-17T08:07:00.007-07:00

America's got talent, but its questionable if it can pick a winner. Last night Kevin Skinner won America's Got Talent. Yup, this guy:

I know economic times are hard for everyone. We all love an inspirational story. And this unrefined, unemployed chicken catcher is no exception. I think he's a nice guy! But does he deserve a bailout to the "tune" of one million dollars?

Where is Kanye West when you need him?

Bryanna's Tennis Match

2009-09-16T17:58:00.003-07:00

Bryanna decided to join the Brimhall Jr. High tennis team while she waits for soccer season to start. She got the opportunity to play in the #1 position and is doing really well! She won her singles and doubles match on Monday, and today they played Taylor Jr. High. All the Brimhall players lost their match, except Bryanna. I was able to go watch her, and she played well. She also won her doubles match - two of the three wins for Brimhall today. Go Bryanna - maybe you will ditch soccer for tennis! OK she won't, but who says you can't enjoy more than one sport?

Max is a Bobcat

2009-09-10T19:52:00.000-07:00

Today's was the first Cub Scouts Pack Meeting that Max attended. He got to go across the bridge and be welcomed into the Pack. He also participated in the presentation (see him studying his slip of paper with his "lines") and even earned his Bobcat badge. I was proud of him as he pinned the Bobcat pin on my shirt. Go Max!

Eric's First Kiss

2009-09-07T12:44:00.000-07:00

We had the delight of meeting up with some of our oldest and dearest friends this weekend - the Ehlands! Glenn was best man at our wedding and he and Susan got married very soon after us. We had some really good times together. Can you believe it's been almost 19 years?

During our visit Susan brought these pictures out. Don't you love them? This is Eric and their daughter, Brianna at about 2 to 2.5 years old - ha! We had a good laugh at how suave Eric was with his hands at her face and foot out to the side, leaning up against the couch. What a pro. Glenn said this is the first and LAST time Eric gets to kiss his daughter. And if you saw her now, you would know why. What a beautiful girl she is!

Thank you to the Ehlands for sharing their Saturday with us. What a fun walk down memory lane and a reminder that good friends are such a blessing - and if they are truly good friends, you can see them in eight weeks, eight months or eight years and they are still wonderful. We look forward to seeing them again really soon and getting the kids together. But don't expect any more kissing pictures - Eric already had his chance.

Bad Dog?

2009-08-07T07:43:00.003-07:00

Yesterday my sweetheart went to his Oncologist. He examined Darrell's leg with the torn ACL,reviewed the reports from the Opthamologist on his glaucoma, and treated the ongoing shingles and a second skin fugal infection. As he was writing up the order for Darrell to see the Cardiologist for his heartbeat that becomes erratic during illness, he stopped and looked at Darrell. Then he said this: "I bet you wonder what you have done wrong to have all this happen to you". My reaction to the Dr.'s statement? I burst out laughing - because that thought had crossed my mind and honestly, he has had to deal with so much. Darrell is the nicest person - sincerely. He is so mellow and kind the only people that don't like him have been on the other side of a lawsuit from him. I had to laugh because it was like when someone states the obvious that everyone is thinking but no one has the courage to say.

But in true classic-Darrell response, my husband said "I was able to come to this appointment and drove myself- so many people have it so much worse. I feel like I have been blessed." Darrell looked over at me laughing and started to chuckle too. I am sure the Oncologist was ready to write us both anti-psychotics. But I also think it was refreshing to have upbeat people in his office. I don't know how he can deal with all the failure and death that comes with treating cancer, but I am so grateful he was willing to in order to be our Doctor.

If you or someone you love in Arizona has cancer, please consider Dr. Harrison Bachrach. We wholeheartedly recommend him.

Max Gets Baptized!

2009-07-25T20:57:00.006-07:00

Max had a special day today - he was baptized by his big brother Eric and confirmed a member by his father Darrell. The Bishopric attended and his Primary President, our home teachers, Max's Primary teachers and his Primary helper. He was wonderful! Bryanna led the music, Eric performed a special musical number on the piano and I gave the talk. The Spirit was so strong - I couldn't help but cry. Even my Mom got up and bore her testimony - fantastic considering she isn't a member, but she felt so strongly she just needed to get up and speak from her heart. Our Bishop was also moved to tears when he welcomed Max as the newest member of the Salt River Ward. It was a wonderful experience and Max was so good. He seemed to really understand what was happening and his behavior was amazing. It was a wonderful day and one that we will remember always. I hope that clarity will remain with Max - the veil seemed so thin. Great decision Max! We are so proud of you.

Summer 2009 So Far

2009-07-19T08:14:00.000-07:00

What a fun summer we have had! Darrell and Eric had their birthday, complete with sundaes! And Max turned 8 on Friday and we took him to Knott's Soak City and Chuck E. Cheese to celebrate. Even Bryanna got into the act at Chuck E. Cheese by riding in on her white horse - that was fun to watch! Eric graduated and formed his fake Christian Rock Band (this picture was just for grins, but when he posted it on Facebook he got lots of reactions - yeesh!) Max has been swimming almost every day in our new pool and we have generally had lots of fun. Bryanna would like to end with Maui as her favorite part of summer. HA! Hope your family has made fun memories too. XOXOXOXO - the Hadders

Hawaii Memories

2009-07-07T19:10:00.004-07:00

It has been too long since I have posted. I wanted to share some pictures of our Hawaii trip.

Eric and Bryanna at Surf School.

A girl and her daddy!

Best friends.

Eric's Senior Pictures

2009-05-15T19:47:00.003-07:00

Eric graduates with honors from Mesa High School next week. Enjoy these pictures of Eric - the photographer caught both his serious and fun side. We are so proud of him!

Max Goes to Work

2009-05-05T07:46:00.006-07:00

Max didn't have an especially good day yesterday. When I asked him about it, he told me it wasn't his fault, because he had a secret. A secret? Max assured me that the reason he didn't do well yesterday was because his brain had taken a job on Mondays and wasn't there in school with him. I am not kidding! I laughed so hard (to his surprise) and then explained how important it was for his brain to be with him at all times at school and it needed to quit its day job.

Ah the joys of parenting an autistic child. I just can't make this stuff up...

Senior Prom

2009-05-04T06:58:00.002-07:00

Eric took Jillian Alger to the senior prom over the weekend. They had such a great time with the close friends in their group. It was really a wonderful way to celebrate the end of senior year at Mesa High. We sure appreciate Jillian and her gentle influence on Eric - they have been friends since they were 8! I am so happy he chose one of his best friends to go to prom with. We sure love Jillian - and they look so cute together, don't you think?

PICC Free

2009-05-01T07:36:00.005-07:00

Darrell was given a clean bill of health as recovered from the parotitis. No more PICC line! No more IV antibiotics! Sometimes it's hard to be grateful for a body that seems to betray him at every turn. But as he faces each new physical challenge, I am constantly amazed at how he can stay positive and grateful. And it's not for show - quiet moments between us and the family, heartfelt prayers he voices, all remind me how strong and focused on the big picture he truly is.

Darrell has taught me so much - not only about him, but about my shortcomings. I know I would not face the challenge with the same faith that he has. I wish I could say that I would be as strong, but I fear I wouldn't be. I guess I need to pay better attention and learn. Because we all will face seemingly insurmountable trials in our lives. Every single one of us. It has made me ponder - how would I do? Not how do I HOPE I would do, but how would I do? It has made me make some mental adjustments.

A volunteer position came up in the community that required a 5-year committment and Darrell was considering throwing his name in the ring. I was so proud of his thought process - he is living like he will beat the odds. Who is to say he won't? Not me! I am gonna stick around and watch the miracle.

Easter 2009

2009-04-18T11:11:00.000-07:00

Hope your Easter was a time filled with family and good food. Ours sure was! We were so happy that Darrell came home from the hospital to be with us. Happy Easter to all 2009.
.

Double Happiness

2009-04-10T11:58:00.002-07:00

This is the symbol for double happiness - which describes me & Darrell now that he has been released from the hospital. Although he is on a PIC line and gets IV's of antibiotics twice daily, he feels great, looks great and we are all happy! Amazing how humble you get when you really get down to the heart of things. As long as my honey is OK, I am doing great. Stuff like the house not perfect, my hair or weight not perfect, etc seems really silly. Good to always progress and strive for excellence, but not good to obssess and let it depress you. When you have your family, you have everything.

Parotitis

2009-04-08T08:15:00.004-07:00

You may think parotitis has something to do with:

But you'd be wrong. It's an acute bacterial infection of the salivary glands (think mumps) and my poor honey got it over the weekend. We are at day 3 at "glorious" Club Bannner, but I think because he is responding so well to treatment he will get out today or tomorrow.

Keep him in your thoughts and prayers. Darrell is a trooper! Between hospital stays he appeared in court at a pretrial hearing, and was hospitalized again a few hours later. I am so impressed with my husband and his committment to providing for his family. We are grateful to all those who helped us.

Bryanna's Soccer Party

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

We had so much fun today at the end of the year soccer party for Mesa Soccer Club Girls United 96 Team! The best part was the parents versus players game. And the feet were flying! Darrell played goalie with another mom in the box and he was rocking! He slapped four or five balls out of the box to keep them from scoring - once the ball hit him in the knee and down he went. Bryanna ran over to make sure Dad was OK - what a sweetheart - she is so protective of her Dad. Darrell got right back up with some help and received a much deserved round of applause.

We really enjoy watching Bryanna play soccer and the friends she has made along the way.

Max & Lucy

2009-03-30T22:30:00.005-07:00

I have the pleasure of watching a cute little girl named Lucy. Don't you just love that name? When she comes to play, Max has such a good time. He instinctively knows to be careful, and he has taken great pleasure and pride in sharing his toys and trying to make her laugh or play with him. He told me last time she was here that he wondered if she would let him sit with her and snuggle in the bean bag chair. That is precious, because he only does that with me. I am encouraged to see this nurturing side of him. Thanks to Lucy's mom and dad for trusting us to take good care of her. We sure love having her!

You are What you Eat?

2009-03-30T07:01:00.003-07:00

I have a cute little friend that I love to hang out with. She is beautiful and tiny - but of course she doesn't know it! We had a chance to escape to our favorite fast food spot, KFC. After we ordered I looked down at our drinks:

Guess which one is mine? It's just a coincidence, right?

Milestone #1- Celebrate with Us

2009-03-24T07:11:00.005-07:00

We are celebrating! This is the longest that Darrell has been out of the hospital AND the lowest dose of prednasone that he has been able to tolerate since his diagnosis in July 2008! He fought off a cold (this is big, because it means his weakened immune system is still fighting) and is feeling "pretty good".

I just wanted to post how grateful we are to our friends and family and all those who have sent good thoughts and prayers our way. We are especially grateful for the priesthood blessing given by Bishop Curtis and the promises made. Darrell and I have clung to that blessing as we have moved forward. As a family we want to express our love to Bishop Curtis, Bishop Merrill, President Bradshaw, Bishop Walker, Brother Brown, and all those worthy priesthood holders that have blessed and guided us through this challenge.

I have read that a trial is when you really have to decide where you stand. You simply can't sit on the fence when you make life decisions. This has strengthened our resolve, fortified our faith, solidified our marriage. And we have the gospel as our roadguide to help us through. Without it, Darrell's illness would just feel like an unfair break without any hope of survival. But we have hope, we have strength and we have resolve. If you have any questions about our faith, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, please click on the picture of the Temple on the right-hand side and get your information straight from the source. It will change your life, if you let it.

Check back for Milestone #2 - 1 year post diagnosis on July 3rd....yes we can.

Now Take It, That's for You

2009-03-10T16:08:00.004-07:00

Do you ever see a movie that leaves you with one line you just thought was hilarious? Well we saw Don't Mess with the Zohan. This was classic Adam Sandler - which means parts were stupid and other parts were just comic genius (in my humble opinion). Click here to see the scene with the classic line...

The kids and I repeat this with food and even gaseous emmissions (smell it, smell it, now take it - that's for you!)

Eric wins Essay Contest!

2009-03-05T18:06:00.006-07:00

Mesa Public School District held an essay contest and all English students could submit their original pieces. Eric put his heart into his essay and his English teacher convinced him to submit it. The news came yesterday that he got 1st Place in the personal narrative category! Now this isn't first place in his class, or at Mesa High School. This is for all schools in the Mesa School District. He will be recognized at an awards assembly on May 6th. You can feel the emotion as you read his essay:

Orchestrating My Place of Peace

“One hundred twelve degrees, 5:32 p.m.”, scrolled the electronic banner in front of the hospital. As the sun banished behind the distant horizon, I reluctantly pulled into the busy parking lot. A symphony of thoughts conjured up an electrical storm of neural impulses in my head. “What changed, is everything alright? Have his kidneys turned around?” The Banner Gateway Hospital sign loomed nearer as I approached the intimidating, gloomy building. When I finally reached the door, it slid open with a welcoming light. The smile on the receptionist’s face gave me a ray of hope and radiated a positive aura at the hospital entrance. “Room 215?” I questioned. “Take the elevator and it will be to the right” replied the optimistic man. The vast elevator opened to reveal a beautiful interior with glass and granite handrails. Upon the second floor the elevator opened and I was greeted by two plasma televisions, both displayed challenging diseases and life-changing trials. “Wow, I couldn’t image having to worry about those trials”, I pondered. “It is a good thing that he only hurt his leg. They can fix that up and we’ll be back to our normal lives.” On the way towards room 215 were a series of closed doors and hand sanitizer dispensers. “210, 211, 212, 213, 214”, I mentally counted. Finally, room 215. I took an uncertain breath and pushed the door open to reveal my mom perched upon the edge of the room’s couch next to a sanitary white hospital bed that supported my dad.

Upon seeing me, my mom quickly put in place her most cheerful expression and stated, a little too happily, “Hi Honey”. I sat next to my mom, and waited expectantly. As she took a moment to pause before speaking, my Mom turned to my dad and said, “Shall I tell him or should you?” My Dad simply shook his head and quietly whispered, “It would be best if you did”. Before my Mom could speak, the door swung open by a small commanding figure who wasted no time with introductions. When he sat at the foot of my Dad’s bed, the electronic bed shifted to accommodate his weight. He leaned forward and earnestly began talking. Words that sounded like a foreign language rolled naturally off his tongue. Words I had never heard before and didn’t understand. Words like lymphoma, t-cells, non-hodgkins, and stem cell transplant. I stared at the doctor’s mouth as the words tumbled out. When the words cancer and chemotherapy finally penetrated my ears, I suddenly understood what was happening and that enlightenment hit me like a thunderbolt. I continued to watch the doctor as he described a diagnosis, prognosis, treatment plans, and a transfer to another hospital. The room spun and my mind raced. Was this what I had been summoned to witness? I finally understood. My dad had cancer.

A few months had passed since I learned the news about my father’s condition. I felt so helpless, but there was one thing I could do to cope with the chaos. From my place on the piano bench, I created beautiful waves of chords that resonated and filled the air in the small home. The music’s emotion could be clearly detected by the casual listener as I set the music with a swaying “A”-based arpeggio. When the base of the song was established, the higher-pitched melody crept in, and created a reflective feel to the piece. I concentrated intently. Ironically, I felt no control over the notes that seemed to magically flow from my fingertips as I closed my eyes and let the music simply guide me. The swirling, seemingly random thoughts and flashbacks of my father’s illness that float unconnected within my mind were tied together in a pattern of organized, complete musical expression of notes and chords. Collections of keys that built in tempo vigorously, increasing amplitude gave way to soft, light chords, held until the desired resolution that only I could feel, seemed to express what I could never put into words. As the final haunting notes were dispersed throughout the home, my mother’s voice broke the silence. “That was beautiful, honey. But I have never heard you play that piece before. In fact I‘ve never heard you play so much. Where are you getting your inspiration?” I simply turned my head to deliver the words of my heart. “I am orchestrating my place of peace”.

This has been such a hard year for our family, but Eric has turned a trial into a triumph. Congratulations honey, we are so proud of you.

"Larry" Hadder?

2009-02-27T07:46:00.000-07:00

Eric can let his hair go. We're talking I'm-protesting-a-war messy and I'm-a-teenager-go-away long. After some convincing and strong-arming my 6 foot 3 son,we got in the car in search for Great Clips. With the wait as long as 1 hour, and me unsure how long I could keep Eric in captivity, we drove around looking for inspiration and found it in an old fashioned barber shop. Perfect, I thought! We walked in and we were greeted by a old man. Old fashioned shop, old man. I guess it figures. Pleasant enough, he beaconed Eric to the chair and began to cut. Now this guy was really good - and he could talk while he worked. And just to prove it, he talked incessantly. He asked my son his name - Eric he answered. This guy said "Harry"? Eric shook his head. "Terry"? Again a shake. "Steven"? I am trying to fight off laughing. The barber gamely tries one more time and asks Eric to spell it. E-R-I-C. "Oh, Larry!" At this I start laughing and look at the other barber. I can tell he is laughing too, but something in his eye told me the old guy wasn't trying to be funny. Was he thinking:

Or worse:

No clue from us - or him - for that matter. So Eric was Larry for the barber's entire monologue. He is such a good kid - he just went with it. I tipped the guy $4 and we made it just outside the door until we broke into laughter. This is one hair cut we will both remember. It was Ha-Larry-ous! (And I didn't make this up to drop a bad pun, I swear - ask Eric!)

It's Punny to Me

2009-02-23T19:17:00.000-07:00

I LOVE PUNS. Another one of my guilty pleasures - RockBand, Pepsi Max, KFC, really super soft socks, candles and puns. Read no further, you just described me.

Now there is no substitute for puns on the run - those little nuggets of funny that present themselves without planning. You know the ones that practically make themselves. And after all the immediate groaning, everyone laughs. Well I can't recreate those, but i thought I would give you some of my favorites. Somewhere Richard Milenkovich is smiling.

1. I couldn't remember how to throw a boomerang, but eventually it came back to me.
2. There was a sign on the lawn at the rehab drug center that said "Keep off the Grass"
3. Just in...a hole has been found in the wall of a nudist camp. The police are looking into it.
4. And in local news, police responded to a call from a daycare center. Seems a 3-year old was resisting a rest.
5. William was going to join the army until he heard his drill sargeant yell "Fire at Will"
6. To write with a broken pencil is just pointless.
7. What's the definition of a "will"? P.S. it's a dead giveaway.
8. Atheism is a non-prophet organization.
9. The toy gun was confiscated from algebra class because it was a weapon of math disruption.
10. Santa's helpers are subordinate clauses.
11. What do you call someone else's cheese? Nacho cheese.
12. Be true to your teeth or they will be false to you.
13. A man clothed in nothing but saran wrap asked his doctor if he would diagnose him as insane. Absolutely, the doctor said, I can see your nuts.
14. The invisible man married the transparent woman. And their kids were nothing to look at either.
15. Someone was running a flea circus, but a dog came and stole the show.
16. Pills with long names are quite a mouthful.
17. Tennis players don't marry because Love means nothing to them.
18. Other girls like the word "marriage" because it has a nice ring to it.
19. I'd like to go to Holland one day. Wooden shoe?
20. When a man got shot with a BB gun, the case ended up in a pellet court.
21. I just saw Finding Nemo. What did you think of it, on a scale of 1 -10?

Darrell Weighs in on our Rock Band success

2009-02-19T12:56:00.000-07:00

Find out what Darrell thinks of our Rock Band success here.

I don't get no respect!

Pure Nerd Joy

2009-02-18T23:20:00.001-07:00

Introducing our "band" - Thanks for the Candy. Our maiden battle resulted in #2 - and so close to #1. Fantastic when you consider so many "bands" competed! How I love to play Rock Band...even better is being so good (and humble, right). Now how nerdy is that?! I rest my case.

My Valentine

2009-02-10T07:34:00.000-07:00

I wanted to post some things about my favorite Valentine.

1. Darrell is the kindest, most patient person I have EVER met. This is no joke - even with the prednisone, which is a steriod and notorious for mood swings and personality glitches, you would never know with him. He just keeps plugging away, in the moment, without any anger for his health or circumstances. He is such an inspiration to me.

2. Darrell is the best dad ever. He calls them all honey and sweetheart. He always has time to watch a skit, a performance, watch Max dance, have Eric tell him the latest physics experiment, or support Bryanna's endless demands from soccer. He gets up early, goes to bed late, pays for lessons, trips, etc. all for the sake of enriching their lives. He can skimp for us, but is helplessly generous with our kids. I like it.

3. He is honestly spiritual. Long before we joined the LDS Church, Darrell was active spiritually. Growing up Nazarene, he has always had the Lord as a focus in his life. He serves quietly, completely without the need for praise or recognition. I am grateful to his parents for setting a good example for him and being dedicated to their faith. Anyone that loves and serves the Lord is good people in the book of Michelle.

4. He is my very best friend. I can (and do) talk to him about everything. No subject, no experience is off limits. When we were dating, I remember thinking this is a guy I could have children with, doesn't micromanage what I do (think RockBand or endless 2-liters of diet pepsi), would love me even if I were in a wheelchair, and is the one I would choose to take to Disneyland. Yep, this is the guy for me! Even when I am upset with him, he is still the person's advice I seek. How lame is that? He has been everything a best friend, girl or guy, should be. I could tell you stories of our outrageous fun and silliness together, but I think I will keep that all to myself. (I know silently you are thanking me for not sharing!)

5. Darrell is so intelligent. When we met, he didn't even have his associates degree, and I thought "are you kidding?" I used to refer to him as my diamond in the rough. An accounting and law degree later, he is able to earn a better living. I am such a fan of education for everyone. Remember, he has no need for praise or attention, so he is quietly smart. Doesn't try to take over the conversation to show you how smart he is, or to sway you to his position. He is often underestimated in his profession - and this is to his advantage. He isn't a jerk, or screaming, or cussing, or taking a hardline position just to prove a point or just because he can. There is a movie line that says "never let them see you coming" and Darrell personifies this. I have seen him do this over and over again in court. He has the opposing party, counsel or police officer boxed in the corner and they never saw it coming. I think this is very funny. I am way too obvious.

Thank you for letting me tell you about my favorite Valentine. Bryanna gave a talk about gratitude in Church last Sunday, and one thing she said was "I am so grateful for my parents. If they were to suddenly go away, I would be so lost". I agree wholeheartedly about Bryanna's dad. Let's hope we never have to experience that feeling.

I love you honey! You are my Valentine.

The Inner Workings of My Mind

2009-02-03T07:23:00.000-07:00

Nap time - I am finally able to close my eyes. A chance to get away from the stress and worries of the day and forget. I am quiet and drift away. I am floating in an indeterminate blue and green mass - it takes me a moment to realize it is the ocean. I have no idea how I got here, but I can almost feel the water, and somehow I know it is very deep. The water is calm. I take its cue and begin to relax. Quietly, without rapid, frantic movement or warning, I am acutely aware of another presence. I can't see anything, but suddenly I know I am in very real danger. That feeling that washes over you - the hair standing up at the back of your neck. It quickly occurs to me what is in the ocean right next to me. A great white shark. And I am terrified. But afraid as I am, I remember that there was nothing else near me. No boat, no shoreline, nothing to swim to or anywhere to go. I am totally trapped and the feeling of helplessness is overwhelming to me. I can see this predator so clearly in my mind's eye. I know that if I reach out, I can touch it- it's that close to me. I can envision its teeth and the damage it could do to me. We are just floating together, no hurry, no movement, almost indecision. But I am absolutely petrified. I have to do something. From the recesses of my mind, I remind myself that I am only dreaming. That this is a horrible feeling but I can somehow try to make it stop - I can get away. I try to will myself to wake up. Have you ever done this? It's a horrible feeling.... I am trying to shout at myself to wake up before the menacing shark has a chance to tear me to shreds. Finally - and I don't know how long it took - I force my eyes open and lay in the dark sweating. I contemplate the meaning of the dream, and know it's pretty obvious. I got away this time, but I know the "shark" is just around the corner. Waiting for me. And there isn't anything I can do about it.

Buckethead's "Jordan"

2009-01-29T07:08:00.000-07:00

Listen to Buckethead's "Jordan" here! This is a really high energy song. Try it on Guitar Hero....good luck with that. (Thanks Erin for teaching me how to link!)

All Hail KFC

2009-01-28T11:23:00.000-07:00

I love KFC - this borders on obsession. It is right up there with a nice fire, warm blanket and a nap. Total indulgence. I will turn down an offer of dinner but shamelessly change my mind if the dangling carrot of KFC is placed before me (Mary Davis). I like it so much that I like this guy, aptly named...(wait for it)....Buckethead!

If anyone has ever tried to play "Jordan" on Guitar Hero, you KNOW his talent isn't just in picking hats.
Random.....maybe. A grateful post as I eat my left-over lunch of KFC? Yes. Just let me enjoy the moment...

Darrell Released for Good Behavior

2009-01-28T07:47:00.001-07:00

So happy to report that Darrell is out of the hospital and home with us. We joke that he was released for good behavior. If there is an award for patience and long suffering, I nominate him. Throughout all of this, he has endured without murmur or complaint...seriously. If it were me, the hospital would have thrown me out long ago. I only aspire to be like Darrell.

For all of you that helped us, and brought us treats, and dinner, bread, called or text us with encouragement and even visited me while I cried, here is my corny thought, inspired from a commercial:

diet pepsi...$1.25
dinner.....$10
moral support and loyal friendship.....priceless.

Thank you for being priceless to the Hadder family.

Surgery Successful

2009-01-25T14:34:00.000-07:00

I am relieved, grateful and happy to report that Darrell's surgery was successful! The procedure was unremarkable (which for Darrell is good) and the stone was removed. At this posting he is still in recovery, but no problems anticipated or experienced, despite the clots in his lungs. Now we can focus on dissolving those, but the good news is Darrell is no longer in excrutiating pain and on his way to recovery. Thanks to all our friends and family for their support and love during this time. You are wonderful!

I Hate the Hospital on Weekends

2009-01-24T12:05:00.000-07:00

Be warned...never get sick on the weekend because it seems everything stops. They said now that the Urologist is stuck at another hospital and won't be able to do Darrell's surgery until tomorrow. On the weekend they only have one surgeon on call. That stinks and a poor way to manage things. What no one gets sick over the weekend? The schedule trumps urgency for the surgery. Another 24 hours for him to be in pain, another 24 hours for his kidneys to worsen. This is the lesson on long-suffering and endure. Ok OK we got it already!

Kidney Stone Surgery

2009-01-24T09:39:00.000-07:00

Darrell's kidney function is worsening and the stone is stuck, so he will undergo surgery at 1:00 pm today. I am just happy he will at least be out of this awful pain. They placed a filter in his femoral artery to catch any blood clots that could break away. It also catches any small ones and keeps them from joining together and stopping blood flow to his heart or brain.

Please keep a good thought and prayer for him as he undergoes this procedure. Hopefully it will go well and his kidneys will improve (anesthesia causes more strain to the kidneys so initially he will be worse, then hopefully better). We can then concentrate on dissolving the blood clots in his lungs. I will post an update later today.

When a Kidney Stone is Good News

2009-01-23T11:54:00.000-07:00

As if my poor honey didn't have enough to go through, yesterday he developed excrutiating pain. We took him to the ER and he is trying to pass a kidney stone. I know many of you have experienced this and would not wish it on anyone. That's the good news. When they did the CAT scan, they caught just enough of his lungs to see he had developed blood clots in both. A subsequent leg unltrasound showed clots there too. As of this posting, he hasn't passed the stone but is still in lots of pain. They are nervous to do surgery to remove the stone because of the clots, and because they need to start him on blood thinners to dissolve the clots. But they can't start dissolving the clots if they have to take him into surgery. He's in an impossible position and they will have to make a decision soon.

Please join me in praying that this stone will pass without invasive intervention and they can start dissolve those clots. We had no idea he was walking around as a potential stroke waiting to happen. I never thought I would be so grateful for kidney stones because if he hadn't been in so much pain passing the stupid thing, we wouldn't have found out about all the blood clots.

We are in our home-away-from-home, Banner Gateway. We would appreciate all your prayers and positive energy. This one has really sapped my energy. I think I am just tired, so please add your faith to mine so it can help overcome this trial for Darrell. We love you all and appreciate everything you do for our family.

One of Those Perfect Weekends

2009-01-19T16:19:00.000-07:00

This weekend was just about perfect!

1) Bryanna had a wonderful game where she made an exceptional keeper save that the crowd yelled for and even the line ref complimented. It was a sight to see her dive sideways in full layout to keep a ball out of "her" goal. She sure loves soccer, but not necessarily the cuts and bruises that come with it. Ok, she does....
2) I got the Christmas stuff finally all taken down, the house cleaned and the laundry done. This makes me very happy.
3) Played lots of RockBand, complete with lots of Pepsi Max (this makes me happier).
4) Went to Sonic with Eric and had some quiet Mom & Son time.
5) Did my visiting teaching for the month for both Sisters.
6) Went to dinner with new friends Preston and Tami Cameron. We sure love our new Ward - it is starting to feel like home. It's great to make friends with similar tastes, not the least of which is the gospel. After dinner we went to the Cameron's home and found that they enjoy music as much as we do. Between the game room with the projection TV and huge speakers, RockBand, the real drum set that Brother Cameron plays, and their concert footage DVD collection, and it was all Darrell could do make me leave their house. I felt like a kid on Christmas and kept looking for a place I could hide in and stay a while. We sure love the Camerons.
7) Darrell is feeling well.
8) The Cardinals make it to the SuperBowl.
9) Monday was a work holiday.

Can every weekend be like this please? I just loved it.

Dad's Visit

2009-01-11T16:15:00.000-07:00

It has been wonderful to have my Dad come visit from Pennsylvania. He came for my birthday, and we have really enjoyed having him for the last week. We each took a day off to spend with him, so everyone got some one-on-one time with Grandpa Bubb. We took some photos after Church today. Dad was released as a Bishop the Sunday before he came out after 6 years of service - I think he enjoyed just sitting in the pew with the family. He leaves tomorrow for the snow- thanks for coming out Dad! We really enjoyed seeing you.

Happy New Year 2009

2009-01-10T11:01:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful time with Mom & Russ and Mary & Rey for New Year's Eve. The theme was Oriental Fantasy (yes we had lots of jokes for that one), but it was really festive and we really enjoyed being together. I realized a few days ago that I have lots of hope for this year - and it surprised me. I am doing good on this "choose hope" and "live my faith" campaign. It is starting to take hold deep down. Besides, who wants to be around negative energy all the time? I don't, and I don't want to be the (-) geiger counter in the room.

I have some resolutions - I think it's the first year that weight control isn't topping the list. Oh it's there (hope springs eternal) but I have three pressing goals: 1) get Darrell healthy, 2) get our financial house in order (we have made huge strides there) and 3) get Eric to ASU. I think it's interesting that I'm really not in that list - all are for my family. I have a true testimony that family is all that matters. And I would give every dime and every possession I have now, ever had, or will ever have in the future, for the happiness and health of my family. I know you all share that same sentiment and I haven't said anything new. It just becomes more obvious when you face major challenges in your life. It really is about the relationships in your life. Take the time to love one another, express that love, and reach out to others. May 2009 be all the things you hope for.

More Christmas Fun

2008-12-28T18:29:00.000-07:00

Just some more snapshots of our Christmas break fun. We have really enjoyed all the family time we had an opportunity to have with Rey & Mary, Mom and Russ and Laura. As I am posting, we are in the middle of yet ANOTHER round of team Spades. I think Mary & Darrell will win again (they cheat, did I mention that last time I lost?). Happy 2009 to all our family and friends. We are optimistic that it will be a good year and that Darrell will regain his health. Combining our faith together we can look for the miracle. Thanks again for all your love and support. Sending love to all of you!

Merry Christmas 2008

2008-12-26T18:58:00.000-07:00

We had such a wonderful Christmas this year. Mary & Rey came out from Virginia to spend some time with us and we just had so much fun together. We have been sitting by the fireplace with hot cocoa, playing board games and some really competitive games of Spades (when they win it's luck of the cards, when we win of course it is skill), RockBand (you would have been disappointed if we hadn't played, right?), silly string, the park and lots of food! The kids got a Gameboy (Max, Serena & Holly), Eric got lots of ASU-related stuff, and Michelle got a GPS system from Rey & Mary (if you know me, you know I have absolutely no sense of direction - this is the most practical gift EVER)! I am so happy to have family surrounding us with love and support. We truly are blessed.

Silly String II

2008-12-26T18:48:00.000-07:00

Does this bring back memories? Way fun!!

Silly String I

2008-12-26T18:46:00.000-07:00

Check out Mary & Michelle jumping for joy - aren't you impressed?

Bryanna in Action

2008-12-21T21:52:00.000-07:00

Santa's gift came early for me - just in time for Bryanna's 3v3 soccer tournament. A beautiful 18x zoom, 10.1 megapixel Panasonic Lumix digital camera, complete with sports burst mode. These are our first test pictures. They will just get better. Bryanna's team made it to the Semi-finals - we were so proud of her. She is a fierce competitor. And I love Santa!

Max Christmas Recital

2008-12-21T09:12:00.000-07:00

Max had a Christmas dance recital - he was so serious it was just too cute to watch him. I just love little kids and I laugh over the effort it takes, months of practice, to get a 20 minute performance. But it was a joy to sit in the audience with my husband and watch our youngest do his best to make himself and us proud. Way to go Max! We love you!

Eric Accepted to ASU Engineering Program!

2008-12-18T07:45:00.000-07:00

Eric received his letter of acceptance yesterday to Arizona State University, Ira Fulton College of Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering major. I am SO PROUD of him! Now I just have to find some scholarship money......this is my new happy focus. There has to be an organization or funding source to encourage and support budding engineers who have gotten into the program based on merit. I am really happy for him. This is what he wants to study and he has such a gift in the area of physics and math. Education is the gift of a lifetime. He will go, no matter what, if I have to fund it all by myself. But I really believe I can find scholarship or grant help. Wish us luck!

Striving to Keep the Balance

2008-12-17T12:09:00.001-07:00

Lately I feel like I am on a see-saw with Faith and Hope sitting on one end, and Discouragement and Dispair trying to tip the balance on the other end. There's a fine line between being realistic and hopeful, and realistic and discouraged. My faith is non-negotiable. I so appreciate friends and acquaintances that offer words of support. And many of you know just what to say to help lift my burden and ease my mind. But may I suggest that the following are simply not helpful:

1. Telling me in great detail about all those you know that have died of cancer and how you hate it and how unfair it is. I agree, but I don't want to dwell on it.
2. Telling me that the trial of losing your spouse would just be too painful for you to go through. I promise you, it will be just as painful for me if it happens.
3. Telling me that the Lord only gives you what you can handle. I recognize that our trials are given to us as an opportunity to grow on an individual level. I sincerely accept this and already can list many valuable things I have learned and will continue to learn. I pray that someday I can perhaps offer assistance to another in a similar situation and that my compassion will continue to grow. But I disagree that our response to our trials somehow dictates what ones are chosen for us, and this statement seems to me to imply that. The Lord choses the trials, we choose our response, and the conversation in prayer between human and diety is private and sacred.

Here's what IS helpful to me:

1. A text or post that you are thinking about us
2. A hug!
3. Tell me about you and the good things going on your life! Invite me to celebrate with you. I don't want to wallow in me - I want to focus on something other than our family situation.
4. A diet pepsi (or coke)...did I really need to post this? I am so easy to please.
5. Let me talk if I need to, or simply sit by you to draw from your strength. I don't know how I am feeling at any given moment, so the same question can elicit a coherent response from me or simply tears. I hate that I don't have a lot of control over my emotion at this time, but it's just the truth. I have been counseled this will go away in time.

I love you all. Please understand that I want and need all of your love and support. I read that often others do not approach someone dealing with a burden (or grief) simply because they are afraid to say the wrong thing. It's OK- it's way better than being ignored or avoided! And even those comments that have prompted this post were made by those who have only the very best of intentions. And I know that. And I quickly forgive, and I hope and plead that you will forgive my shortcomings. I just wanted to post what DOES help me. I hope it is received well and accepted in the spirit in which it was intended.

XOXOXOXOO, Michelle & the Hadder Family

Darrell is on the Road to Recovery!

2008-12-13T15:43:00.000-07:00

I wanted to thank everyone for all their prayers for Darrell. He got really ill about 1:00 am on December 10th. His heart rate and pulse were so faint that as I watched him struggle, for the first time I was really afraid. He was already in renal failure, despite my best efforts to watch him carefully and get him immediate help as soon as I recognized danger. Thankfully they got him stablized in ER triage and transferred to ICU, where he remained until last night. He is now in a regular hospital room. He is steadily making progress and is lucid and able to talk to family & visitors. We don't know how much longer he will have to stay. We hope he can get out in a couple more days.

My mom was and continues to be amazing as she fields 3:00 am phone calls from me and drops everything to help our family. She has done it before, and unfortunately she will most likely be called upon again and again. She has been the best mom I could ever ask for and a trusted friend to lean on. I have been so blessed and feel deep gratitude for her and those around us that honestly care.

Thank you to Mary Davis for posting a call for prayers on his behalf. Thank you to our friends who called, text and came to see Darrell and provide support to our family (too numerous to mention). Thank you so much for the treats (Mary Davis and Lori Farr) and the yummy wonderful dinner delivered right to the room (Marilyn Johnson is the best cook!)Mary also helped with Max and Marilyn would have done anything for us we asked. Chrissy Hamberlin helped with Bryanna. Everyone has been so supportive - we never felt like we had to go it alone. We appreciate the blessings and visits from our new Bishop and home teacher, the offers of diet Pepsi from everyone that really knows Michelle, and the care and concern for Darrell and our family.

These are times that we are so dependent on our friends and family in order for us to be strong and exercise our faith. Each time you come through, I know I can never repay the kindness. It has humbled me in a way I cannot describe. We have been shown the true love of Christ as you have reached out to us with charity. We love you all. I will never be able to express how much. Please continue to keep Darrell in your thoughts and prayers as he recovers. This will be a wonderful Christmas after all!

Early Christmas Present

2008-12-09T20:24:00.000-07:00

I was so happy to see three of my favorite friends from my old Ward! How I have missed their friendship. It has been hard to move away from the love and support of friends like Amanda, Mary & Tiffany. I don't know how I can ever repay them for all they have done for me. You guys are the best! P.S. Amanda, you're really rocking it!

The Life Cycle of Santa

2008-12-08T21:51:00.001-07:00

Ok, so this isn't the traditional sentiment about believing in Santa. I heard this somewhere and I can't help but laugh at the truth of it.

When you are a child, you believe in Santa.
When you are a teenager, you don't believe in Santa.
When you're middle aged, you are Santa.
When you're old, you look like Santa.

Fragile Nature of Things

2008-12-03T16:06:00.000-07:00

I love these flowers. They are from Darrell for our Anniversary. He started a tradition that he would give me a rose for each year we were married. It was not too expensive the first 10 years, but now the display is quite impressive. And I was so happy to get them this year. I wish the flowers would last indefinitely. But I know that soon they will fade and wilt away. I wonder if that is why I appreciate them so much. If they stayed forever, I would take them for granted and become accustomed to their beauty. In time I would not even notice them. But since I know they will be gone soon, I treasure them while they last. It has got me thinking about the fragile nature of things. The Lord could make things last forever and ever, yet He doesn't. There is a time and season for everything. I know that there is a plan to my life that isn't always clear to me. And beauty that I must fully appreciate because of its fleeting nature. I know family and relationships are ultimately eternal, but I am confronted with the knowledge that here they can be fleeting. I think health issues really make you examine your perspective and choose an attitude. I choose to be hopeful and recognize the role that faith plays in my life. I choose to be grateful.

Family Turkey Time

2008-12-01T07:26:00.000-07:00

We had such a fun, low-key Thanksgiving this year! Thanks to Mom and Russ who suggested we eat out this year and save our energy (especially Darrell's) for food and family time. We had lots of yummy food, even better desserts, and then we came home and played an "I-spy" type of game that is fun for everyone from Max to Grammy. The weather was beautiful and it even indulged us with some much needed rain. We have finally hit in the low 70's . NOW I remember why we live in Arizona. On friday Eric, Bryanna and I played the 7-hour marathon Rock Band Endless Set List - now we have platinum symbols (for those who know or even care what that is!)with me on vocals, Eric on guitar and Bryanna on bass. We are waiting for the Ion premium drum kit to arrive...how exciting and slightly pathetic is that? Now to start a real band, right? "Thanks for the Candy" goes on tour near you....or at least in the neighborhood. Our house is always filled with music - and I love it. Hope your Thanksgiving was as happy as ours filled with food and family, health and happiness. It just doesn't get any better than this.

Happy Anniversary to Us!

2008-11-24T06:57:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it has been 18 years since we got married! When Darrell was in the hospital we wanted so badly to spend our anniversary together - and here we are! I enjoyed peeking back and I hope you do too. It was fun to remember how we felt and the committment we had and still have, now stronger than ever. Three beautiful children and a marriage of serving one another has given us many wonderful memories. We look forward to the next 18 anniversaries. Darrell always says "18 years and counting 'til Eternity..."

Bryanna gets a new look!

2008-11-22T14:25:00.000-07:00

Bryanna decided to cut her own hair - look out Hannah Montana! But with the hair color magic of new Ward friend, Jodi Crosby, Bryanna's hair is so cute. Shout out to Jodi Crosby - we recommend her to anyone. If you want to have your own hair transformation, call her at (480) 229-7326 to set an appointment. I'm next!

Max gets 50 stars!

2008-11-17T19:36:00.000-07:00

We are so happy with Max's choices at school lately. He has been working very hard to earn 50 stars for appropriate behavior during the day. He is on day 12 in a row of perfect 50 stars. Way to go Max! We love Max so much - the little teacher in our family with the biggest lessons of all.

And Now for Something Really Random.....

2008-11-12T20:14:00.000-07:00

Chuck Norris...that really cool guy that fears no one and everyone fears him. Do you know the TOP 19 CHUCK NORRIS "FACTS"?
1. Chuck Norris can sneeze with his eyes open.
2. There is no 'ctrl' button on Chuck Norris' computer. Chuck Norris is always in control.
3. Chuck Norris can slam a revolving door.
4. A "dead ringer" is the guy who sat behind Chuck Norris at the movies and forgot to turn his cell phone off.
5. Chuck Norris has counted to infinity...twice.
6. Chuck Norris doesn't read books. He stares them down until he gets the information he wants.
7. Chuck Norris does not sleep. He waits.
8. Death once had a near-Chuck Norris experience.
9. Chuck Norris is the reason Waldo is hiding.
10. When the Boogeyman goes to sleep each night, he checks his closet for Chuck Norris.
11. Chuck Norris can lead a horse to water AND make it drink.
12. Chuck Norris doesn't wear a watch. He decides what time it is.
13. When someone says "no one is perfect", Chuck Norris takes it as a personal insult.
14. When Chuck Norris does a push up, he isn't lifting himself, he is pushing the Earth down.
15. Chuck Norris knows the last digit of "pi".
16. If Chuck Norris works in your office, do NOT ask him for the 3-hole punch.
17. God said "let there be light" and Chuck Norris replied "say please".
18. Picking a fight with Chuck Norris is illegal in 12 states because its considered assisted suicide.
19. Chuck Norris died 3 years ago, but the Grim Reaper is too afraid to tell him.

Remembering those who served our Country

2008-11-11T18:50:00.000-07:00

I want to express my gratitute this Veterans' Day for all those who have served in the military. I have a father, stepfather, grandfather, sister, and two brothers who have served our country. I salute all those who have done so for our freedom. And for those who have made the ultimate sacrifice, how can we show our gratitude? I know of one small way...make a toy donation! Jeremiah's Corral is a toy chest with donated toys for hospitalized children at Banner Gateway set up in memory of an East Valley soldier, Jeremiah Robinson, who died while serving in Iraq just before his 21 birthday. These toys made a huge difference for Max when he was hospitalized with pneumonia a couple months ago. Please consider donating to this worthy cause for ill children and as a way to honor not only Jeremiah's memory, but all those who have given their lives in military service. For more information, call Banner Gateway at (480) 543-2748 and mention Jeremiah's Corral.

Welcome to our New Home

2008-11-10T06:55:00.000-07:00

Not too fast...

2008-11-09T15:55:00.000-07:00

Bryanna got the 24 hour stomach flu and after a day of feeling not so hot, she recovered and went back to school. Friday night Darrell started getting sick, despite our efforts to keep any germs away from him, and he just got worse. By Saturday morning I knew he needed medical intervention and took him to Banner Gateway E.R. We spent the entire day there unsure if he would be admitted as they administered two bags of fluid and zofran (very strong anti-naseau meds). Finally he stablized and I could tell Darrell was going to be alright. I was able to bring him home last night and he has slept on and off since then. Although we knew he would be susceptible to everything, we didn't know that a bug that makes one member of the family sick makes him super sick and warrants a trip to the E.R. I guess we will have to always be diligent.

Health Update

2008-11-06T07:10:00.000-07:00

Darrell is not only holding steady but is actually showing signs of marginally improving! He goes to the Dr. regularly and has blood tests every other week. Slowly but surely he has been able to lower his prednisone. Some of his blood levels are coming back into normal ranges. This is good news! We would love to see him totally off the drug, if possible. The Dr. has no explanation as to how his body is reacting. We are just grateful for any reprieve. Now if we could just fix his pesky leg....

Mesa High Homecoming

2008-11-05T21:24:00.000-07:00

Eric had a great time at Mesa High's Homecoming October 25, 2008

Friends Gone

2008-11-03T06:48:00.000-07:00

We had a tough weekend facing the devastating effects of cancer. The father of Darrell's paralegal and our friend, Alyse, and Jeff McBride from our Ward passed away this Saturday after brave fights with the disease. In response Darrell slept most of the weekend and Eric and I played marathons of Rock Band (our favorite escape).

These experiences have really hit home as we contemplate making the same journey towards either recovery or a shortened time together. We are grateful for all the support of friends, family and the Church in our lives. We love you all.

Welcome to our Blogspot

2008-11-01T20:19:00.000-07:00

We created this blogspot to share information about our family with our friends and family. Thanks for visiting us! And please click on "comment" if you get a chance to leave your own message- we would love to hear from you.