June 2006

June 13, 2006

This past month we had an exciting expedition with our Youth Conference - Part 2.  The Young Men and Young Women who participated had a GREAT time !  They Young Women were involved a week before, making bandannas for the event.  You could really feel the Spirit of being in a group together with a purpose.  45 bandannas were made by 7-8 girls, and a few leaders.  Thanks to Sister Andrea Whittington and Sister Diane Chappell for sharing their time and sergers, and also Sister Lynelle Rich, who "sacrificed" her iron press for the "cause".  We began our hike at Brother Otis Rose's home, hiking West into the Richville Range.  Thanks also to Taelynn Gleason, Kacie Chappell, Deborah Peay, Colton Walker, Tim Peay, and Skyler Wheelwright for sharing their ancestor's stories as we hiked to Spring Hollow, where the activities began.  We played games, shot bow and arrows (Thanks to Brother Jeff Streadbeck and Brother Farrell Oldroyd), and probably the most fun of the day was had in building two towers by lashing logs together. Two different teams competed with each other to see who could get their tower up first, and then lash their decorated flag to the top of the tower !  The test came when everyone climbed on the towers to see if they would hold.  One of the towers appeared to have a small problem with tipping, but then it was discovered that the bishopric was intentionally lifting up a corner...tsk.tsk. Everyone had a great time, and the rain wasn't too bad, just cooling things off a little (4-5 times) as the days activities progressed. The day ended with a delicious Dutch oven dinner prepared by Kent Whitaker, Georgia Mikesell, and Virginia Burwell.  Thanks also to Korey Whitaker for hauling dinner up to us, without spilling a drop !!    A special thanks to the Richard Wiscombe and all of his hard work in making this day special, and also to his relatives for allowing us to use their property. The evening ended with remarks by Bishop Birt, as he urged us to write in our journals, so that we could pass our histories on to our descendants.

 

June 18, 2006

Dear Dad,

Happy Father’s Day !  I couldn’t think of anything to get you that you REALLY needed, so I decided to write you a letter.  I remember on Mother’s Day, getting “stuff/fluff” from my kids, and what I would have liked best of all was just a note from them, telling me what I meant to them.

I am proud to have you for my dad.  You have taught me many things over the years.  I remember once we were planting potatoes in the garden when I was 8 or 9 probably, and I said to you, “Dad, this is sure TED e us work, isn’t it?”  And you said, “It sure is”, and then you very kindly told me how to say the word tedious correctly, and then you told me about the time you mispronounced “superfluous” when you were a college student.  I just retold this story last week at Youth Conference, and the kids got a big kick out of it.

I can remember the camping trips, fishing trips, picnics up Hardscrabble, hiking to the M, sitting on the front porch watching thunderstorms, jumping on the BIG inner tube you got for us at that surplus sale, the neatest playhouse in Morgan, waking up and hearing the cement mixer going on Saturday mornings, stories at night about the Contripitor, while you scratched my back.

You have taught me honesty and hard work and dedication.  You have been such an example to me as you have gone on a mission and dedicated yourself to Heavenly Father’s work and children, even though you haven’t felt the best physically. 

My plan is to endure to the end, and endure it well – just like you are doing.  I love you very much.  Thank you for being such a wonderful father, I am proud to be your daughter.  Thank you for teaching my kids also.  I feel as though I have a miniature YOU in Zac.  I am so glad he has picked up so much of your “know-how”.  I will always do my best to make you proud of me, and represent our family name well.

Love Gwen 

 

June 18, 2006

Dear Zac,

Happy Father’s Day !!  I just wanted to tell you that your dad and I think you are doing a wonderful job at being a father.  Sometimes it is not easy, and it WILL get harder, especially as  Treyson starts to talk and walk and express his independence and individuality, but we know you are up to it !   It give us great joy to see the love you show to your family.  You are such a hard worker, and we know you will ALWAYS provide for them and take care of them.  Remember what I told you the other day, and don’t work TOO hard – take time to “smell the roses”.

 

We love you !

June 27, 2006

I haven’t written for so long it seems.  I’ve been in a funk of some sort.  Weight is way back up, no energy.  I have started walking with Deb Kinsey this past week, and hopefully I can get on track this way.  Sometimes it feels like my life is spinning out of control, and I eat food (white bread) to fill some hole there.  I’m not reading the Book of Mormon like I should.  Grab a clue Gwen !!  

I’m stressing I guess about Landon and his college plans…………..  He is working two shifts at nights for Rosehill Dairy, and then all day 5 days a week for Farrell Oldroyd building cabinets.  He is trying to fit in baseball with the ‘Canes.  We had a nice day trip to Rupert Idaho, and Rog went to St. George to watch some games.  Coach “K” has his “favorites” though, and Landon isn’t a suck up.  He needs to improve his hitting !!!  Defensively catching he’s great.  

Josh Wilson got his mission call to Leeds England, and Jake Blazzard is going to Mexico City Mexico.  Landon still had another year !!  I hope he keeps his sights on a mission.  I worry about it so, with him going off to college.  Got a call from Treasure Valley Community College in Ontario Oregon (1 hour past Boise Idaho) Sunday.  The coach, Rick Bauhman is very interested in Landon playing for them, but no scholarship monies are available………..so we will have to fork out approx. $9,000.  I guess we’ll get a loan I guess.  The Utah schools have not taken ANY interest in him, and a college in Rangely Colorado seems interested – Northwestern Community College, but Treasure Valley is a premier Junior College for baseball. I’m stressing so badly about him going up there all alone, I know it will be good for him, but will he stay strong in the gospel, and close to Heavenly Father??     

Bishop Fisher and Julia went into the MTC a couple of days ago, and report to Billings MT on July 1^st.  Landon has been going to the singles ward here in Morgan.  He likes that.  I got my assessment roll done by June 10, and now my biggest stress besides Landon’s college plans is Girl’s Camp in July.  Landon is out right now on a milk run in Layton – I hope things are going great.  

Another stressor is Manda planning on going back to Arizona – probably in January.  What will we do with little Camryn in our daily lives?  Oh how I wish Manda would be happy and satisfied in Utah.  She says that she is doing it for Camryn, so that she can have more of a relationship with her dad, but I think that is just an excuse for wanting to go back, and to get out of Utah.  She has SUCH an excellent job here, and if she could get an apartment on her own I think she’d be much more happier, but NO – she wants to uproot once again, and go back to Arizona, where she will not have the support system she has here……….. will have to get a new job, new place to live, new babysitter for Camryn……….WHY !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! can’t she see how hard that will be.  I can’t even think about it it makes me so sad and mad.  Zac and CJ are thinking of adding on to there home – always something (project). 

May 2006

5/2/06

Dear Family and Friends,

Time is getting short and we will soon be back where we can talk to you face to face.  That will surely be nice.  We are busy, busy, busy - getting things all pulled together and in place.  We hate to leave anything undone but we are sure whomever comes after will do a terrific job.  We all like to think that we can't be replaced but life just seems to go on without us.  All each of us can do is "our best" and we will have no regrets.  May the Lord bless each and everyone of you as you serve in His Kingdom here on earth.  This is the only way we can be truly  happy.

Love, Elder and Sister Dickson

 

Email from Aunt Dawna,

Hi, how are you and your family doing?  We are fine and busy as ever. 

Just a short note to be updated on your parents arrival in Salt Lake Airport on May 13th.  Just wondering is the schedule you sent me around the first of April, still the time schedule that Lee & Veloy are arriving in SLC, see below.

Arrive   SLC   9:28pm   on Delta flight 3758

We are planning on being there to greet them with the family.  If you are doing anything special for them later, family & friends get together or anything like that, if I/we can help in any way please let us know.  Also, please let us know when they will be having their Homecoming talk in sacrament meeting because we want to be there also. Remember, if we can be of help in anyway just let us know.   Thank you.

Love, Dawna

 

May 4, 2006

Hi Dawna

As far as I know, that is the time, and it hasn't changed.  I was going to talk to mom and dad, and have them call when they get into Los Angelos at 3:20 pm (which would be 4:20 pm our time), just to let us know if everything is on schedule from that point on.  There is no sense in going to the airport, if somehow their 11 hour flight from Taipei was delayed getting to Los Angelos, which would put them getting home even later that 9:28 pm our time.  I sure hope everything goes as planned.

Either Zac or our family will be driving their truck (mom and dad's) down to the airport to pick them and their luggage up. I know all of us will be going in our other various cars too, and probably fighting to see who gets to ride home with whom. hehe:).......  On Sunday, (Mother's Day) their church starts at 9am, don't know if they'll be up to going to all of their meetings, but assume they will want to hit sacrament, which will end at noon.  I was thinking (and I haven't talked to mom yet, but I'm sending her a copy of this email) that we could all meet up at the property in the afternoon (if the weather is warm) for a barbeque/hot dogs, potluck, etc.  I figure we can just put a note on their front door, and say "Come on up to the Property!"............... so that whoever wants to see them can come up and enjoy the afternoon.  I hope they will be up to it, and not too tired.  I just think that would be easier than at their home, where everything is still basically in boxes.  We have put all of the furniture back, and have their bed set up, and I am going to have their fridge stocked with basics, and paper plates, & utensils in the cupboards, but I have no idea where she packed everything away, and they will have to unpack themselves (with our help) , as I'm sure they will want to put everything where they want it.  It is Camryn's birthday on Friday the 12th, so we will be celebrating her birthday and their homecoming on the 14th. And I hope everyone on both sides of the family will feel welcome to come and see them.  Just bring some meat to grill, and a potluck !! I am so very excited to see them.....it almost will be like when we get to see Ambure and Tonya and Lance and the Grandma's and Grandpa's again...............I can hardly wait !!  As far as the homecoming talk............... I have no idea, but we'll be sure to let you know !!

Love Gwen

PS here is a picture of my cute grandkids

5/5/06

Dear Gwen,

Thanks so much for the photo show.  We sat and watched it 4 or 5 times in a row.  Is there any way to slow it down or pause so that the pictures can be studied more carefully?  Zac is sure learning to do a lot of things and he's learning them by diving in and doing it, just like I did. 

Would you please make an appointment for us with President Porter as he is the one who will release us from our mission.  Anytime Sunday morning would be great if possible so as not to intrude on our family get together. 

Thanks so much for all you have done for us this last 18 months.  See you soon.

Love, Mom and Dad

5/7/06

Dear Family and Friends,

It looks like we will be saying goodbye to each of you, as this will be the last time we will be sending our journal.  We will be unhooking our Internet this Thursday and will be staying at the Mission Home for a couple of nights while we move things out of the apartment.  Lee and I will bid the friends we have made here and the beautiful country of Cambodia goodbye on Saturday as our plane leaves at 12:30 p.m, but will be greeting our family Saturday night when our plane arrives at 9:30 p.m. in Salt Lake.   Hopefully, we will see most of you during the week that follows and what a wonderful sight you will be.  This has been a special eighteen months for the both of us and something we will never forget.  What an exciting experience it has been.  We only wish more people would realize just what they are missing and how much help they could be to the newly converted members of the Church.  We have a testimony of the Gospel and of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.  We know the Church is true.  May the Lord bless each of you and your families as you live the principles of the Gospel.  See you soon.  Love, Elder and Sister Dickson 

100_3911 - a display of an ox cart in a natural area outside the Lucky Grocery Store.

100_3916 - food and women at Open House

100_3917 - food at the Open House, black dots on the noodles are flies not raisins.
100_3918 - notice the bright pink paint, the woman in yellow top is the one we refer to as the movie star and Sister Le.
100_3930 - English class waving goodbye as we leave ASPECA for the last time.

May 7, 2006

Well, it's winding down I guess.  We are busy here getting prepared for you to come home, just like you are there, preparing to COME home.  Are there some other missionaries that will be taking your apartment??  What do you do with all of the furnishings??  Have you sent stuff home via snail mail, as opposed to packing it in your bags??  I get teary eyed reading about all of your lasts there..............I bet it is really hard to leave the members there and the girls at Pela's knowing that you might never see them again.  Maybe Landon will get called to Cambodia, and when he gets done, we can all go over and pick him up?? 

We got our new Bishop today, and it is Elwin Birt, with counselors of Steve Wilson and John Paige.  Steve is Larry's son, and John is Shelly Paige's husband.  Shelly is the mom of Johnny Barrett, the missionary who was killed in the Ivory Coast mission.  John is a convert, I think??? since Johnny died.  They will be great, and we are behind them 100%.  

Manda and Camryn have been in Arizona for the past few days, and will be getting home tomorrow (Monday).  Landon is in bed sleeping now, in preparation for his milk run tonight.  We just got back from the property.  Roger mowed it for the first time today, and it looks good.  We used our mower, because yours/Marks is out of order.  I guess he took it to Ron to get serviced, and Ron changed the wheel, or did something with the wheel, and Mark picked it up, brought it home to mow his lawn, and the wheel fell off.  I'm not sure where it's at - as far as getting fixed, so we just hauled our riding lawn mower over and got it done.  I hope you are not too disappointed that we haven't kept it up as well as you would have...........  It's not a total mess or anything, but we just don't have the time to spend there everyday and night.  It will be presentable for a picnic/barbeque for Mother's Day though, I just hope the weather cooperates.  

Landon's baseball team is in a "wait and see" mode.  They have to see if Judge Memorial beats Park City tomorrow, before knowing just what is up for them as far as the playoffs this week.  There will be a 3-way tie for 3rd place (Morgan, Judge, Union) if Judge wins tomorrow.  If this happens, we have NO IDEA...........how they will decide who goes 3,4, and out.  A flip??  Playoff games??  We already have a game scheduled for Tuesday with Grantsville, for Senior night (last home game), but if we need a playoff game, that might be bumped.  Hopefully we will go in at 4th place, and will play two games at Delta on Saturday, and be able to drive back to SLC to see you at 9:30.   

What if your plane gets delayed?? How will we know??  I'm guessing that you will call us from Los Angelos right??  I guess you have all of our cells, so you can get a hold of us, or at least ONE of us, then we can pass the word along.  If Zac drives your truck down, will that be enough room to put your luggage in the shell in the back?? - I guess we can throw some in the trunks, etc.  I have yet to make contact with George Hopkin (Stake Exec. Sec) - but I will tonight for sure, to get you scheduled for your release.  Which me and Landon want to attend for sure.  I'm not going to church next week, I just want to spend the day with you, and getting ready for the property, etc. etc. 

Well, write back and let me in on any details that we need to clear up this last few days.  I love you both, and am so proud of both of you.  You are such an example to me, and I am just bursting at the seams with pride, with you as my parents !!

Love, Gwen 

PS  I just got a hold of George, and since it’s Mother’s Day next week,  they are keeping the meetings of the Stake Presidency to a minimum, so your releasing will not interfere, or have to be worked around any meetings.  I told them maybe 9 am??  And they will come to your home and release you there, and I asked if Landon and I could be there too, and he said that would be fine.  Of course, if there is a problem with your flight being delayed, then we can back this time up if necessary.

Also, George wanted to know if you would be bringing your “release” papers with you, as the Stake President has not received them as of today.  He said the if the papers weren’t there on Sunday, and you didn’t have them, that it WOULD NOT be a problem, and they would still proceed with the releasing. (Dad my grammar check said that I should use precede in place of proceed……….is this right??- I thought I was right….I can hardly wait to get you back and we can do the word thing in the Reader’s Digest – do you remember, Ubiquitous???? Hehe::) 

Note to extended family

I know that with Mother's Day and all that most of you will be busy on Sunday the 14th - but

I wanted to let you all know that we (Lee and Veloy and kids and grandkids)  are planning on being up to the "property" in the afternoon,

probably 1 or 2 to 4 or 5??   If the weather cooperates.  We are just going to put a note on mom

and dad's door, that says come on up to the property!!  And hope that any of you that want to

see them on that day, feel free to come up and visit.  We will be having hamburgers, and hotdogs,

and potluck, so I just wanted to let you all know that you are all welcome !!  I know they would love to see you !!!

Dear Gwen,

Just received your parents' final e-mail and are excited for you all to be able to be together again.  We hope to be able to come to the meeting they give their mission report in.  Will you e-mail us to let us know what day and the time that will take place?  It has been such a wonderful experience to read about their mission activities.  We know what a great asset they have been to the Church in Cambodia.  Hope that all is well with you and your family.  I'm sure they are growing so fast as our family members are.  Time just slips by without even realizing it. 

Hope to be seeing all of you again when your mom and dad get home.  It's hard to realize it's already been 18 months since we were to their going away meeting. (We don't call them farewells any more.)

Thanks for letting us share their mission with us.  It has meant alot to both of us.

Love,

Lorin and Lillis       Our e-mail   lorintonks@yahoo.com

Dear Gwen, here are a few answers to your questions.

Are there some other missionaries that will be taking your apartment??  No!

What do you do with all of the furnishings??  Those that we don't give away the mission will store until someone needs them.

Have you sent stuff home via snail mail, as opposed to packing it in your bags?  No, we are making everything fit into our luggage.

Also, George wanted to know if you would be bringing your “release” papers with you, as the Stake President has not received them as of today.  We will be bringing them with us.

Dad my grammar check said that I should use precede in place of proceed……….is this right??- I thought I was right.  You are right.  Ubiquitous, what's that??

 I'm guessing that you will call us from Los Angeles right??  Right.

If Zac drives your truck down, will that be enough room to put your luggage in the shell in the back??

Yes, it will fit easily.  We have 4 suitcases, two carry-ons, the laptop and Mom's purse.

See you soon!!

May 9, 2006 - Tuesday

Dear Gwen and Family,

Thanks for keeping us posted on everything.  Your new bishopric will do a great job.  I am familiar with John Paige as they used to live in our ward (I believe it was the 1st Ward) years ago when Johnny was just a teenager.  Before out mission I worked with John on the Emergency Preparedness Committee and he is a great guy.  Don't get too stressed out with Mother's Day, everything will work out fine.  I know you want it to be nice and I'm sure it will.  Just being home with everyone will be wonderful. 

That was sure a priceless picture of Landon and Bishop Fisher.  We can hardly wait to see how much taller Landon is. 

Here is a list of the cell phone numbers that we have.

Gwen and Roger - 801-821-0669

Zac and CJ - 801-791-9573

Mark and Carrie - 801-554-7725

Erika and Aaron - 801-916-3971

We will call you when we get in Los Angeles - LAX.

See you soon,

Love, Mom and Dad

 

May 9, 2006

Just a note or two:

Do you happen to remember where your sheets for your bed in your bedroom would be?  I don't even begin to know where to look.  It is all set up, but you may have to sleep on the bed downstairs that is made unless I can find the sheets.  I guess that wouldn't matter for one night.  Also, Aunt Pam said that she and Uncle Norris have gotten you some onions from Paul Dickson to plant, and not to worry about it.  Mark told Roger last night that they won't be able to come down to the airport because of ball games, so don't bother calling him on his cell.  Zac and CJ and Manda and Camryn will be coming from Morgan, and Roger, me and Landon will be coming from Delta, because that is where we will be on Saturday.  The baseball team is going to the playoffs  in at 4th place for sure, and we play two games in Delta on Saturday, and it will work out really well, with us just coming back to SLC to get you !!  wooo hoo !!  Erika and family will be coming from Salt Lake.

Here is another picture of Landon which I inadvertently omitted from the last email.  This is him in "cowboy" mode.

only a few more days......................

Love Gwen

 

May 9, 2006

Gwen:

I'm assuming Roger told you that we won't be able to make it to the airport on Saturday as we have games at 6:30 and 8 pm.  We'll talk to you on your cell and coordinate with you on the timing of your arrival in Morgan.  There is a chance that we might drive to Delta to watch the early game at 10 am.  Is that the correct time, and if so, what time is the second game?

What can we do to help with this Sunday or with Dad & Mom's return?  What can we help with on Sunday?  Is there a key hidden somewhere so I can set up their bed, or have you already had Zac or Roger do it?  The lawnmower is still out of service and I've been hiring Ben Wiscombe to mow our lawn, and he had mowed the property once already.  It looks like you guys mowed on Sunday...would you like us to use your mower and mow it again on Friday or have Ben mow it?

Let me know what we can do.  Thanks.

Mark

May 10, 2006

Yes, the first game is at 10 with Delta - if we lose we play at 3 pm, and if we win we play at 5 pm.  If the 5 pm game goes long (Hopefully we're in this game) , I will drive back alone to the airport and Rog and Landon will ride the bus. I'm getting hamburgers and hot dogs to barbeque at the property. Rog is getting buns from his work.  Erika is making a brownie cake and bringing drinks, I'm making a "plain - Rich man" macaroni salad, CJ and Zac will do chips, etc.  Maybe Carrie could do baked beans, olives, or anything else you can think of that we might need or like.  Maybe if you could get the barbeque grills down to the property, set up and ready to go.  Also, the only cleanup down there that would be necessary at this point, would be the liter pop bottles, cups and trash that is around the fire pit area.  Roger put the bed together the other night when we were at moms.  I'll ask Roger what he wants to do about the mower - would the small trailer be available on Friday to haul it on? It's probably a time issue - our mower takes quite awhile to mow it compared to yours or having Ben do it.  Let me know.  

Thanks

Gwen

 

Mark’s reply

Gwen:

Carrie will bring something on Sunday, and it will be nice I'm sure.  We'll get the lawn mowed, whether it's with your mower (I'll call and coordinate with you) or with Ben, or with our mower if Ron has it done (we won't be going back their any more).  I'll get the gas grills down there and have propane in them. 

 

Mark
 

PS  I hope nobody is upset, frustrated, or even mildly annoyed with me that I'm not making it to the airport.  I'm the head coach and we only have 10 players, so Devin and Dallin missing takes us down to just 8.   

 

 

May 10, 2006

Do you ever not want to write something, because it just about kills you……….. and you don’t want to think about it, but it’s all you can think about, and it is sooooooo depressing, that you are just in one big funk, thinking about it?

My brother called me today at work.  He took exception to my reply to his email above.  He thought I was being snide with my remarks about cleaning the property, and the trailer.  As I was writing it, I was trying to be soooooooo careful in how I worded it, because he seems to take such offense at things I say.  Just like last week, when I wanted to move mom’s bed from his house back to theirs.  He was so short and abrupt, and made me feel like I was asking him to cut off his right arm.  We are just so different. Well, Mark proceeds to drop a bombshell on me.  He no longer believes the church is true…..and his wife, Carrie is right there with him, and they are going to raise their three boys with that same belief.  I have so many confusing thoughts and feelings about this.  My first in unbelief?!?!?  HOW HOW HOW can he go from being a missionary, and a stalwart member? Elder’s quorum president, etc. to this !!?!?!?!  Apparently a few years ago, Carrie’s brother Dee, went off the deep end, and got into this stuff that was anti-Mormon, and Mark said that in attempting to HELP?? Dee see the light, Mark was convinced also, that our church is a hoax, a scam, a business………that Joseph Smith DID NOT see what he said he saw, and that the Book of Mormon is FULL of errors…………….  I am just crushed, that my brother, who I have always looked up to, has been duped by the devil.  I never would have believed it.  It scares me.  Will I have the strength to hold strong to my testimony??  I pray that I do.  I cannot refute Mark’s different arguments, because I do not have the “knowledge” of supposedly “learned” men.  But I do have my testimony, and I have my faith, and I will go forward and follow Gordon B. Hinckley, whom I believe is a living prophet, receiving revelation from Heavenly Father.  I will follow men like my former Bishop, Craig Fisher, and President John Porter, and my dad and mom.  When I got my patriarchal blessing, Brother Little asked me what I wanted more than anything, and I told him that I wanted to remain strong in the gospel, and keep my testimony for the rest of my mortal life, not faltering ever again.  How How How could my brother have let himself get to this point?  Could it happen to me?? Could it happen to Landon???  This will just devastate my parents when they finally find out, and I don’t know when that will be……..apparently there are rumors going around Morgan concerning my brother, and the church, and him turning against it.  He doesn’t know how they got started, because President Porter and myself are the only ones who know at this point.  He tells me THREE days before my mom and dad get home, and I’m supposed to put on a “happy” face !?!?!?! My joy at seeing my parents return, is so dampened, knowing of their disappointment when they hear or find out what is going on with Mark and his family.  How could Carrie stand by him??  How did Aunt Jolene stand by Ray???  Wake up !!!  Part of me wishes that Mark had not told me anything.  I was just sure that he had been offended by someone, or was being prideful, and letting his social life be put before the church – basically being a “lazy” Mormon.  But to hear him go on and on about his new “realization” and how it has “liberated” him, and how he and Carrie have never been happier, how he feels like Truman, in the Truman show, who finally grabbed a clue.………………How mom and dad are wrong, and Aunt Jolene and Uncle Ray are the RIGHT ones…………… How all of us who believe are basically being led around with a ring in our noses, like some dumb blind oxen. (He didn’t say this outright, but that is what he is thinking, based on what he told me)  He had called me when I was at work, and I couldn’t talk much, except to utter yes, uh-huh, and so I think he just felt comfortable that I was not FREAKING OUT (which I was inside) so he kept talking and talking (not trying to convince me, but just explaining his new-found knowledge)  and I just kept getting sicker and sicker inside.  Marsha and Spencer, Carrie’s mom and dad now have two of their five children who have seen the “light” – so to speak, as Mark puts it, and they only know about ONE of them.   Mark said that about a year ago, Marsha said to Carrie, “I would rather have my husband commit adultery, that to deny the prophet and his testimony and this church”.  She must have had some inkling of what has been building.  Mark said that this has been going on for the past two years, and they finally stopped going to church last October.  This also explains why they were not at Zac’s baby’s blessing……….why they ditched us, and were “out of town”.  Yea, what a story, he just didn’t have the courage to say, “You know what?  I’m not worthy to stand in the circle!”  My mom and dad are going to be so disappointed.  I wish I could take this away from them.  I believe that my dad will truly be more devastated than when Tonya and Ambure died.  I know he would think it would have been better that Mark would have died on his mission, firm in his testimony………….that to have reached this point, where his eternal salvation is in jeopardy.  I wonder if I sound like a sanctimonious pompous ass !  I don’t mean to.  You know of all the things that I have written in my journal over the past 30 years, this is probably going to be the hardest for someone to read in the future.   I love my brother – I told him this yesterday.  I guess that is why it hurts so badly. 

I can’t talk about this any more.  Another subject.  Landon received a $1000 scholarship last night, from the Ray Wiscombe Memorial Scholarship Fund.  This will certainly help with college.  Only a couple more weeks of school for him, then it’s graduation, work, college, mission………………..

May 11, 2006

Dear Family,

This is the last email.  We are just getting ready to close out the apartment and turn off the computer.  We leave Cambodia at 12:30 PM. tomorrow.  See you soon.

Love, Mom and Dad (Grandma and Grandpa)

All of the times below are OUR times

Mom and Dad will leave Phnom Pehn at 11:30 pm Friday night  (we are in Delta, awaiting baseball games tomorrow)

They will get to Taipai at 3 am Saturday morning. (in bed sleeping in Delta)

They will leave Taipai at 4:40 am Saturday morning  (in bed sleeping in Delta)

They will get to LA at 4:20 pm Saturday afternoon   (Driving home from Delta)

They will leave LA at 7:40 pm Saturday evening  (meeting Landon in SLC, to pick him up from the baseball bus, to go to the airport)

They will arrive at SLC at 9:28 pm Saturday night  (Their plane actually got in early 9:08 pm)

Sunday, May 14, 2006

Well, mom and dad are home.  What a wonderful thing to say.  Last night we met at the airport at 9:08 (their EARLY arrival time).  It was so wonderful to hold them in a big hug once more.  Mom looks great – maybe a little thinner, but not much.  Dad has aged quite a bit.  He really has.  He looks closer to 80 than to 70 I think.  He said it was “scary” to experience such a decline in health, and increase in aging in such a short time.  Me and Landon and Jaden went over to their home this morning, and President John Porter met with us there to officially “release” them from their mission.  They will report to the High Council next Sunday morning at 7:30 am.  Don’t know when their “homecoming” is for sure yet.  It was a nice meeting this morning, and I was invited to bear my testimony.  I told mom and dad that I had faith that that gospel was true, and Joseph Smith was a true and living prophet who translated the Book of Mormon, and that we had a living prophet on the earth today, in Gordon B. Hinckley.  I got pretty emotional, and I told them that my testimony was very important to me, and that I would always hope to endure to the end with my testimony intact, and that no matter what, I would hold true to this.  I was in part, “prepping” them for what they must soon face with my brother’s revelation of his new found “enlightening”………….I also was letting President Porter know, of my feelings, so I think he must know that I “know” what Mark is believing now.  I also wanted Jaden to hear this, and to KNOW my feelings, and hopefully be able to combat his dad’s misguided notions.  I don’t know how much of this will help, but I’m glad I got the chance to speak, and I know the Holy Spirit prompted me the previous night, because I was thinking that I would like to say these things, and had thought about what I wanted to say prior to going over to mom and dad's.  Landon and Jaden were also invited to say a few words, and also mom and dad bore their testimonies.  It was a special time, where I felt the spirit very strongly.  I pray that Landon will stay strong in his testimony as he goes away to school this next year, and faces new temptations and challenges.   We had an enjoyable day at the property this afternoon, having a hamburger/hotdog barbeque, and visiting, and just relaxing.  Camryn celebrated her birthday with everyone, and all seemed to have a great time.  Later we went back to mom's for a short time, and my goodness what gifts they came bearing.  I got a moo moo, a silk robe, a silk purse, a pair of Birkenstocks, a bracelet, chopsticks, wooden frog, bookmark, coin purse, mirror, air freshener for the car……….my mom really took the time to get each person a few things that are very much appreciated. 

I am so grateful they are back, and that they can get back in the swing of things, and that my dad’s health hopefully can be somewhat restored, and that he doesn’t work himself too hard in the garden and yard and property…………makes me tired just thinking about it. 

May 14, 2006

Here are the play by plays for the last two games on Saturday - not very pretty overall,  but there were a couple of great moments - Way to go Chase Woodard, on that Grand Slam !!

I've also attached the final stats for the year - If you would like INDIVIDUAL stats - let me know and I'll get them sent off to you !

We will wait to hear from Stan Rees concerning the baseball/retirement banquet/barbeque/party that will be held.

I'll pass info along concerning this.

Thanks for all of your help and support - Thanks to Kathy Markham for the great articles that ran in the Morgan County News.  I'm working on getting a book put together with all of the articles and ALL of the play by plays (for each game) and also a bunch of cool pics.  I'm checking on a price for this, and if you would all like a copy - I'll let you know the cost, and we'll see if we can swing it !!

Thanks for the great ride boys and coaches - Roger and I have enjoyed EVERY minute of the last four years, and it's really really hard to see it come to and end :(..........

Luv ya !!

Gwen

 

Gwen,

Thanks for much for all you’ve done to keep us informed during all of these years and these many seasons of ball with our boys.  We’ve absolutely loved you and Roger and feel lucky to know you.  We sure hope to continue to see you two often.  You’re the greatest!  On to Operation Graduation I guess.  Thanks again for everything, especially the fun personality you have and especially for how wonderful you two have been to Brandon.  He really does love you and Roger.

Greg (Mead – Brandon’s dad)

 

Gwen,

Thank you so much for your work.  I am sad to see Landon graduate.  He is a great kid from a great family.  Good luck and thanks again for all your help in baseball.

Darin Murdock

Hey thanks for the stats Gwen and thanks for all you have done the last few years be sure to tell Rog thanks for me too. thanks

Derrick (Roskelley)

 

 

Did you HAPPEN TO TAKE FAMILY PICTURES AT THE PROPERTY YESTERDAY?  CJ WANTED TO HAVE TO DO THIS AND I JUST WANTED TO KNOW IF YOU DID, IF YOU WOULD FORWARD ONE OR TWO TO ME OF ZAC, CJ AND TREYSON  THANKS  ARE YOU GLAD TO HAVE MOM AND DAD HOME?  THEY LOOK GOOD.

Shirlee Wilkerson

Yes I did take their family photo, and I'll forward them to you.  Yes, I'm glad mom and dad are home, it was so good to go over to their home today at noon, and the front door was open................ and I just walk in and they are there !!  Dad was working in the garden, and mom was trying to get her house put back together.

May 19, 2006

Hi Everyone,

We arrived home safe and sound with all our luggage.  We did have some anxious moments in Los Angeles though when we couldn’t find one of our suitcases but it eventually showed up on a different baggage turntable than the others.    The flight on the Eva Evergreen upgrade was great but didn’t start until we reached Taipei.  We were assigned seats 35A and 35C, which were the first seats in the section with plenty of legroom.  The meals were very good and our individual TVs turned out to be handy since we didn’t sleep much.  I don’t know where I got the idea that it would be light all the way but when we reached Taipei it was and raining and by the time we left it was dark.  My sweater came in handy here and I’m glad it was close by as I wore it most of the time from that point on.  In Taipei we met another missionary couple, Elder and Sister Ernstrom from Logan, Utah.  They had just completed a 20-month (originally 18-month) mission as the office couple in the Philippines.  The layovers in Taipei and Los Angeles did not seem long as it took a while just to get from one gate to another.  Our carry-on suitcases were never weighed but we were reminded several times that they shouldn’t be overweight.  In fact, just before we went up the escalators in Phnom Penh one of the airport personnel lifted each carry on.  He said we were only allowed 7 kilos and that one of them was 10 kilos, but let it go.  We were lucky with customs in Los Angeles and didn’t have to be stopped but were just waved on with our suitcases.  It was necessary to then take our luggage up a long ramp and deliver it to another baggage handler to be sent to Salt Lake.  Upon reaching the United States we did experience “sticker shock” when Lee purchased a Slurpie which cost $5.80.  Our Delta flight was a smaller airplane and the two carry on suitcases were tagged as we entered the plane and placed with the other baggage, as the overhead compartments were too small to handle them.  The Vietnamese hat that I carried was awkward but it surely did catch the eye of several different people who then asked a lot of questions about where we had been and what we had been doing.

It was great to reach Salt Lake and be greeted by our children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, etc.  I kept my watch on Cambodian time for a couple of days just to keep track of what all of you were doing (getting up, eating lunch, going to bed, etc.). 

We miss you all very much but it seems so good to be home with our family.  The Stake President came to our home Sunday morning at 9 a.m. to release us and so we were only able to attend our Ward’s Sacrament meeting.  Because we arrived home so late the night before, it was a surprise to everyone when we showed up at church.

We had a great get together with our family on Sunday afternoon but we have been very busy ever since.  Our garden is finally all planted and we have managed to unpack, move a few of the essentials back into our home, attend baseball games with the grandchildren and do a little visiting. 

We are looking forward to seeing most of you this fall if not sooner.       

 

May 21, 2006

Stan just let me know that he would like to have the banquet THIS  Wednesday night - YES - THIS WEDNESDAY night the 24th at 6:30.

We are going to have it at my parents property - located on Highway  66 (1280 S. Hwy 66) behind my brother's home down next to East  Canyon Creek.  There is water, electricity, gas barbeque grills,  fire pit, Porta John, tables.  16 boys, and their parents (not entire families) 3 coaches/wives are  invited.

He is planning on grilling marinated turkey breasts on the grill.   He will get these, and get them ready to go. We would probably need  a couple of dads to help grill.   He has asked that we get salads,  desserts, and baked potatoes and drinks assigned out.  (He has two  cases of Coke that he will be bringing, so whatever else anybody  would like to drink.

I will call Larry at the chicken inn to do the potatoes.  He washes,  foil wraps and bakes for a very reasonable price.  (we just have to  pick them up in a cooler to keep them warm), I'll get the paper  products/utensils, etc. , and also balloons to put on the pole at  the entrance to the property.  As far as gifts??  I can have 8x10's  pics  of the seniors group pic printed out and ready to be put in  11x14 frames, that are matted (in white) to 8x10 - this way all  the  boys can sign in the matting area.  Judy has said that she can pick  up the frames - I know for wrestling that we got black frames with  white matting for very reasonable price $3-4 at Walmart.  The 8x10  prints are a dollar something at Sams - so we are looking at maybe  $5-10 for each boy.  If anyone else has a great idea that we can do  in a short time - speak up !!

Listed below are the boys/parents names and phone numbers  They will need to be contacted by tonight or tomorrow at the latest  to let them know about the banquet and their food assignment  - I'm  sending out a mass email tonight, but I"m not sure who all reads  their emails religiously.  

Judy  - Pam - Karen - Kathy  - we need to get salads, desserts,  drinks assigned out.

How many salads - what kind? Drinks? (remember Stan is bringing 2 cases of coke
Desserts - how many and what kind?
butter and sour cream for potatoes........... anything else?? 

Let me know if you have any questions, have we forgotten anything??

 

May 23, 2006

Stan

We will plan to collect the baseball uniforms tomorrow night. Don't forget to bring those big tubs. For the All-star game this Sat - what uniform are Derick and Landon and Al wearing?  They'll need to keep these obviously, and turn them in later.

Everything is set to go for the banquet - it should be great !!  Bob Bell is going to get those booklets printed up - one for each boy and coach.  I told him to forgo the "color" on the inside pages, and so it will only come to about $80 something dollars, I hope this is okay.

Thanks ! If you need any help with anything give us a call - otherwise we'll plan to be at the property at about 5:30 in order get tables wiped off, etc. - see you there !

Gwen

 

May 25, 2006

Gwen and Roger,

One of the reasons that this has been an enjoyable season for my family is because of the effort you two made to make things special.  I cannot believe all the work and effort you put into this season.  The pictures, the stats, the book for the boys is way beyond the call of duty.  I feel privileged to know you and your son.  Alan will have a lifetime of memories because of you.

Thanks again 

Kevin 

Gwen, I'm so sorry that both Troy and I had to miss the banquet.  I was out of town with my 5 sisters and my mom and Katelyn was sick.  The pictures turned out great and the books are awesome!  What do I owe you for the books?  Let me know and I will send you a check.  Thanks for everything!

  Kathy Markham

 

Stan is paying for the books out of the baseball budget !

The banquet turned out great - I'm sorry you both had to miss it.  I know boys don't say much, but every boy was there, and 3/4 of the parents, and the food was great, and the company was great, and I think the boys really liked the pictures/frames, and everyone liked signing them, and Stan had some great things to say about each boy. He particularly mentioned how he was impressed with the way the Chase and Zach got along.  He said he had coached a couple of other brothers on his teams of the past 10 years, and sometimes things got pretty ugly.  Anyway, he said he really enjoyed watching your two great boys interact in a good way !!  I got a picture of Chase and Zach with Stan but I think they turned out pretty dark - but I'll send them to you anyway. I guess it's all over ...............Hopefully we'll see you and Troy sometime - these last few years have been great, and we have enjoyed your company !!  Take care.

Gwen

May 27, 2006

Dear Family and Friends,

Well we have been home now for two weeks and I have been told that I had to complete our journal about our mission in Cambodia.  We hope you have enjoyed reading about our experiences and the wonderful time we had serving in that part of the world.  We hated leaving these special people because we will never see most of them again, unlike when we bid goodbye eighteen months ago to our family and friends here in Utah when we left on our mission.  No one will ever know what a choice experience a mission is until they serve one themselves.  We are glad to be home with our growing family and once again see our friends.  For those of you who have inquired, we will be speaking in church on Sunday, June 11th.  Sacrament meeting starts at 10:50 a.m.  Thanks to all of you for keeping in touch and letting us know what was going on the past eighteen months.  May the Lord continue to bless each of you.

Love, Lee and Veloy

(we don't feel completely dressed without our name tags - we sure do miss them.)

 

April 2006

April 2, 2006

Dear Family and Friends,

It doesn't seem possible that another month has flown by.  Why just last week it seems like we celebrated Christmas and here it is the end of March.  We are looking forward to seeing General Conference next week.  It will be a week late but we have been told they will have the videos available for us then.  This is a first for the members here in Cambodia, as they meet together and watch General Conference.  It will be broadcast in English, Khmae and Vietnamese.  I hope there is a good turn out to all the meetings and that the members realize just how fortunate they are to be able to receive instructions from our Prophet, the Lord's mouth piece here on the earth, and the other Church leaders.  I hope all of you took advantage of this opportunity too.

The Gospel is truly a wonderful way of life for those who will let it be.  It is our prayer that we will all keep the Lord's commandments and the commitments we have made with Him, and endure to the end. 

We send our love, Elder and Sister Dickson

 

 April 4, 2006

 Just to let you know that you got a check from Deseret Mutual Ins. for 271.32 which I deposited. 

How are you feeling mom??  Any better??  We have been praying for you.  Conference was really

great !  Last night Landon had a baseball game at Lindquist and they won Wasatch 4-3.  Today he

has a game but it's supposed to be bad weather.  I haven't looked outside or watched the news yet.

Sadie Adams is getting married, and her shower is this Wednesday night. Hope you enjoyed the

"First Burn" slideshow that I sent.  Work is crazy, life is crazy................. Hurry up and get back so

you can go crazy with us :) haha 

Love Gwen 

 

April 4, 2006

We really enjoyed the slideshow.  It made us so homesick.  I can remember all the good get togethers we had down at the property when we were cleaning up.  Boy, we sure did have some good fires.  Dad and I are getting excited about coming home. 

Erika mentioned that Sadie was getting married and that Joan called and apologized about sending the invitation and all the others to the wrong mailing address.

We are glad the baseball team is winning their games.  Tell Landon to keep up the good work.

Thanks for letting us know about the money.  Now Dad can relax and know that that has been taken care of.  He ended up having to resubmit the claim.

We are anxious to hear General Conference this coming weekend.  Did you realize that Elder Oaks was talking about Brother Som and his son Collin when he talked about Cambodia? 

See you  soon,

Love, Mom and Dad (Grandma and Grandpa)

PS  Dad tried his hardest to see in the slideshow if Roger had done any plowing of the fields but couldn't tell.  He'll just have to wait until we get home to find out.

April 4, 2006 

Hey - you didn't answer my question - are you feeling any better mom??  Also, tell me more about Elder Oaks and what he said........  I guess I missed that part, although I do remember something about Cambodia, because my ears perked up..  Roger has NOT plowed the fields.... he won't be doing it himself, but hiring it done.  It would take him hours and hours with his two bottom plow, and Roger Stuart can have in done in a couple of hours.  Also, we haven't told Aunt Barbara yet, but we won't be running her place or Kendell's this year.  Roger is just too busy at work and too tired when he gets home.  We will still plan to run yours, but will be telling Orson to find someone else also.  We will have Aunt Barbara's plowed, before turning it over to someone else.  Roger hasn't talked to her yet, and I told him he needs to SOON........    I know she will be upset that we didn't tell her before last fall, so she could have someone in there plowing it then, but oh well......  we will pay to have it plowed this spring for her.  Don't say anything to her yet, Roger will this week sometime. 

April 5, 2006

I'm sorry.  Yes, I am back among the living and am feeling much better but still get tired very easily.  My cough has improved a lot but comes and goes, especially if I do much talking or get in the direct line of the air conditioning.

As for Elder Oaks, he asked President Towers to give him something about conversions here in Cambodia.  He approached Som to see if it would be okay to tell about him and Collin and the way they were introduced to the Gospel.  If you recall his story it goes something like this.  Collin was about eleven years old and was riding his bicycle in the neighborhood when he saw a couple of young men showing a group of people a picture of Jesus Christ and asking them if they knew who it was.  No one answered and so Collin spoke up and said it was a picture Jesus Christ the Son of God.  He then sped off on his bicycle before the two young men (missionaries) could question him.  It was about a month later that they spotted him again and this time he was with Som.  They explained why they were looking for him, ended up teaching and baptizing the family.  As a result, Som is now serving as 1st Counselor in the Mission Presidency.

It was really touching to Brother Som when he heard Elder Oaks tell the story.  We can hardly wait until Saturday and Sunday to see General Conference.

Gwen, rather than just plowing the field, maybe you should check with Aunt Barbara and Kendall to see if they think anyone else would be interested in running it for another year before it is plowed.  If you do plow it, make sure the two steel posts we have put in on the North edge of the gravel road are not disturbed.  They are used to locate a stake out in the field that is on the corner  of the property line between us and Aunt Barbara.  From that stake down toward the creek, the actual property line is approximately 10 feet north of and parallel to the road.  It runs straight to a stake down by the creek.  From the stake in the field up toward the highway, the property line angles towards the gravel road.  There is a stake up at the top of the gravel road just south of the head gate that marks the corner of the property line.  It is perfectly ok to plow up the stake out in the field as long as we can locate where it was by measuring from the two steel posts (15 ft I think.  It is written down somewhere). 

We love you, Mom and Dad

April 7, 2006

Dear Family, We just received this from Aunt Barbara and thought you should

know if you don't already.

Love Mom and Dad

 Hi, I hope you are both feeling better.  I'm sorry that Lee's health hasn't been the best while you have been in Cambodia.  You always sound so busy, I know that makes the time go fast, but I don't see  how you can keep all the things you do separate and organized. I don't know if anyone has told you about Jack's health.  About five or six years ago he had a small melanoma removed from his right ear.  In fact, they  had to remove the top portion of the ear.  A few months ago he noticed a small lump behind the right ear--on that bony prominence.  The doctor removed it and it was a lymph node with the presence of more melanoma.  He has had multiple scans to look for invasion of any vital organs.  With the exception of something in the left side of the thyroid, all that showed clear.  He is , however, having extensive surgery to remove clusters of lymph nodes along the  right side of his neck and shoulder.  Apparently, these nodes are in a sort of chain or cluster and anything will spread from one to the next. this surgery is to be done on April 13.  I am flying there for a few days.  Regardless of what the nodes show when biopsied, he will undergo intensive therapy--they aren't calling it chemo, but he will receive doses of interferon intravenously, everyday for a month.  Then once a month for a year.  This will make him very sick with fatigue and flu-like symptoms. They tell him to not plan to be able to work much for this month-long period.  He is trying to be very up-beat, but of course he is worried.  They may have to do something with the thyroid at the same time.  He was to have a biopsy of that organ yesterday.  I haven't heard the results.  They have said the surgery would be about 8 hours.  He feels confidant about his oncologist and the surgeon who will do the work. This will take place at the hospital at Fort Collins.   We are all praying for good news at every stage, and know you will join your prayers with ours.  Our family has been so free from cancer, maybe we have become overconfident, figuring it would never happen to any of us.  Jack is telling all of us to take care in the sun. We are looking forward to seeing both of you in not much more than a month.  Wed. night Joan had a shower for Sadie.  I saw Gwen and Mandy and her little girl there.  She is a sweetie.  I couldn't believe how long her hair is.   Love to both of you.  Barbara

 April 7, 2006 (email from Dawna)

Gwen

I lost the date that your Mom & Dad left to go on their mission to the MTC.  I know it was after Thanksgiving, or was it just before Thanksgiving 2004, who knows!!??.  I thought I had it, but right now can't find it.  Could you email me that date?  Also, have they mentioned the date yet, besides the end of May, when they will be coming home?  I think they are looking forward to it, yet sad that it is over and like they have said, the friends they made over there they probably won't ever see again.  

By the way, loved the pictures you sent us.  Your little granddaughter is sure growing, and getting cuter and cuter, can't wait to see her again in person.  Probably won't be until your Mom & Dad comes home.  How is your grandson Treyson doing?  In you Mom's journal she stated that he had a sore or something on his head (can't quite remember what she said), but did they discover what it was?

Talk to you later.

Dawna

My reply:

Dawna I don't know the exact date for sure that they left, but maybe you can figure it out if you have a 2004 calendar.  We did Thanksgiving at Mark's on the last Thursday, and then on the next Monday they went in the MTC, and then they flew out on December 13, 2004.

Here is what they wrote us concerning coming home, but I don't think it is TOTALLY Finalized (as far as the airlines)........... unless it is, and they forgot to tell me.  Anyway we are planning for 9:30 on May 13th at the airport - so come and join it the celebration !!!

As far as Treyson, he's doing great - it turned out to be just a bruise I guess.  They thought it was a leptomeningeal cyst, but it is gone now.  With all of the praying we were doing, it very will might have been a miracle.......... because he had ALL the symptoms

April 9, 2006

Dear Family,

Thought I would drop you a quick note.  We have watched General Conference the last two days (Saturday and Sunday) and it was awesome.  We have another appointment in about 45 minutes so thought I had better let you know where we are going and why I won't be sending my regular journal.  The journal is not up to date and after my 8 a.m. Family History meeting tomorrow morning we are leaving with Pres. and Sister Towers for Battambang.  They invited us along since we haven't been there yet.  After the Zone Conference in Battambang we will then travel to Kampong Cham for another Zone Conference returning on Thursday, just in time for the Khmae New Year which is Friday, Saturday and Sunday.  These last five weeks are going to go by fast if we keep this pace up.  Hope everything is great back home and that the weather is warming up. 

Love, Mom and Dad (Grandma and Grandpa)

 

Email written to Forrect McNabb (Landon’s old summer ball coach)

Hey - we're playing Park City tonight at 5:30 at Lindquist field, and we'd love to have you come and watch if you are not busy.  See ya, Landon and Derick

 

Email back from Forrest:

You guys are awesome, along with Gwen & Roger.  I hope I can make it by Saturday to see you – do you know the time for Friday’s game yet?  Congratulations on your win against PC.

Best of luck to all of you this season and I have been watching the box scores in the SLC Tribune.  We need less rain & snow and more ball games.

See you soon. Forrest

April 12, 2006

Dear Mom and Dad

Hey – Mark called me last night, and the Tyrrell boy who lives across the street from Mark, called him and wants to know if he can get married and have a reception down at the property on June 3^rd.  Mark called me and said he’d leave that up to me and you guys……….. and that he would get back with them in 2-3 days. 

I don’t know what you think about this, but here are my thoughts.  The property is a mess…………..as far as branches, leaves, etc.  I am having the Young men and Young Women in my ward go there tonight for some service project cleanup, and a weenie roast and devotional, and I’m sure it will look a lot better when they are done…….. and I’m sure we’ll be mowing and cleaning it up by then (June 3^rd) – but I just think that a wedding is a little much, especially because they are both from Morgan, (he’s marrying Tony and Teresa Jones’ daughter) and where will all the people park?? What about toilet facilities??? Etc etc e.c . And I know you and dad will feel that the property has to be JUST PERFECT, and you will get back on May 13^th, and only have 3 weeks before June 3^rd, and you will both kill yourselves off, trying to get it just so…………..  I personally don’t think it’s a good idea at this time, maybe if it was way later in the summer, to give you a chance to get back into the swing of things.  

Now don’t read into this that we are going to just let you do it all…………….. because Mark and I learned a good lesson this past year, #1 It needs to be mowed twice a week  #2 It sucks to have to do the mowing all by yourself each time…………..#3 This property is a lot of work !!!  and we all need to pitch in, and have a schedule of who is mowing, and trimming, and when, and let you and dad just fill in the “small” gaps………. 

Anyway, back to the wedding….. You know I am right when I say that you two will feel that you have to make it just perfect……………. And the parking?!?!?!?  Rog will NOT be happy if they get on your 10 acres that he is farming……….. and he talked to Aunt Barbara last night, and told her that he won’t be running hers or Kendell’s and she was okay with that, and Roger is getting with Jeff Jones, and he will probably do them (Aunt Barbara would like him to, but I don’t know about Kendell yet)  - by the way Dick Yardley died, don’t know if I told you about that yet.   So I guess Jeff Jones (being Tony’s brother) wouldn’t care if parking was done on the bottom of the ground he would be running for Aunt Barbara, but I don’t’ know……………..  

Anyway, I’m not telling you what to do or not to do, because it is your property, and I wouldn’t have even bothered you with this, and would have just told them no myself,  but Roger said I had to tell you so you wouldn’t hear about it after the fact and be mad that I made a decision that wasn’t mine to make.  Am I making totally sense ?!?!?!? heheJ  

Anyway, I hope you have had a fun time traveling, and that you are both feeling well, and please get back with me asap, so I can call them and let them know (Tyrrell’s)

Thanks

Love Gwen

PS  Mom, I just talked to Lois Bell, and she’s staying at her mom’s Saturday through Tuesday, so she said to stop over when you get back.  She knew all about you and dad, because Carol Tonks keeps her up on things.  Also, FYI  Aunt Sharon’s husband’s mother died (Beus).

 

Gwen,   

All the reasons you mentioned, especially parking, bathroom and timing are problems.  Mom and I agree that all things combined it would be best to say no to the wedding.  Tell them we are really sorry we have to say no.  Thanks for all you do for us.

Love Mom and Dad

 

April 13, 2006

Dear Gwen,

Could you please check with Vickie Thompson (I believe her husband is Roy Thompson) who lives over by Kent Francis.  I need her Email address so I can check with her on some Family History questions and procedures.  She is very knowledgeable in Family History and hopefully she can give me some answers.

Thanks again for all you do.  See you soon (now it is less than a month - by one day).

Love, Mom

April 13, 2006

Dear Family and Friends,

Almost the latest news from Cambodia.  I am finding we are always a day late but thank goodness not a dollar short.  We are really going to be in for a sticker shock when we return to the United States and see how much more things costs, especially to eat out.  We are truly spoiled.  As I have said before, the time is passing quickly and we have mixed emotions.  We can hardly wait to see all of you again but hate to bid goodbye to everyone here in Cambodia.  We are working hard trying to get everything done but it all takes time, and even though we have no one to replace us the Lord's work will continue to move forward. We send our love and prayers, Elder and Sister Dickson

100_3622 - The small watermellons we get here but they are delicious

100_3680 - Sister Hayes and Brother Som's granddaughter, Selina
100_3694 - Employment class of returning missionaries

 April 15, 2006

 Well..................your truck is started !! yahoo !! I'll get it registered, and what about ins.?  Zac was going to drive it a little bit (once a week or so), just to keep it going, but wasn't sure about the insurance.  Who do I contact, Mike Mangum? 

We also moved your big furniture back into your home, what about the other stuff?  boxes, etc.  Should we stack them in the garage??

See you later :)

Gwen

Easter talk in YW

 “He is risen; he IS NOT HERE”  Mark 16:6 – These are such simple words, but they tell of the most “significant” event that ever happened upon this earth. 

In the Old Testament it says (Job 14:14) –“If a man die, shall he live again?”

This question has been around since the beginning of time. I doesn’t say in the bible, but I imagine that when Adam found his son Able, whom Cain had killed, that his was heart broken !  Imagine how he must have felt when Heavenly Father told him, “Your son will live again!”

I have this thought that keeps recurring over and over again to me.  It is this.  I think about how WE in this day and time, read about the people in the Book of Mormon.  How they lived, their families, Lehi, Nephi,   King Benjamin,  Ammon, Helaman, Samuel the Lamanite, Mormon, Moroni.  I think about how they “hoped” and “had faith” that the Savior would be born into this world, they listened to the prophets, met together in meetings, just like we are, and just like we do every week, trying to live their lives the way that Heavenly Father and  Jesus would want them to, so that they might live with them again.   …………..then the signs of His birth !  I happened, just like they had faith that it would !  Can you imagine their joy ??  And then, the 33 years of  faith, waiting for the sign of his death and resurrection, and then seeing Him again in all of his resurrected glory !!  We read in third Nephi, and hear about all they experienced, seeing the resurrected Savior, and wishing we could have been there to – I think about that often, and marvel at the faith they had, since the beginning of time – since Adam found Able,

Wondering – will my son live again ??  Having to wait until Christ made it possible for that to happen – and HE DID !!  Christ was born, He did live, and He did rise from the dead.  He made it possible for EACH ONE OF US, to live again.

Here we are 2000 years later, and WE listen to our prophets, and apostles, telling us of the day when Christ will come again to this earth, we have faith, and try to live our lives that way the Heavenly Father and Jesus would want us to, so that we might be able live with them again.  In this, our time on earth, we have sorrow too…………. We have deaths and injuries and  illnesses.  But we have faith and KNOW that Jesus came to earth, died for us, and rose again…………..we have faith in His resurrection.  Jesus said, “blessed are they that have NOT seen, and yet have believed”  (John 20:26-29)

Jesus taught – “Because I live, ye shall live also”

April 16, 2006

Reply from Mom and Dad

Thanks to everyone!!  Call Mike Mangum on the insurance.  Have him reinstate what was on the white truck  before we left.  Also, if you use the green truck its insurance needs to be reinstated. About the boxes, Mom says she needs to think about it.  She's busy right now  with family history.

 Gwen,

 I'm sorry Dad couldn't wait a couple of seconds until I finished what I was doing.  When he decides to do something, he wants to do it right now. Sounds a lot like me, huh?  I'm not sure what boxes you are talking about but I think we can take care of them when we get home.  I plan to take mytime in putting things away.  It seems that I have finally reached that point in my life that, "if it doesn't get done today maybe it will get done tomorrow."  Actually, I can't think of where I put anything when we packed them away.  Just use your own judgement and we will take care of the rest. We really appreciate all that you are doing for us. Thanks for getting Vickie's email address.  See you soon.  Love, Mom

Gwen's reply:

The boxes I'm thinking about are the ones up on the mezzanine in the shop.  I realize that there are probably some stuff there that you probably might want to keep there, but what about kitchen utensils, pans, etc. We wanted to have your fridge/pantry stocked with basic essentials, milk, bread, cereal, bananas, etc. for you when you get home, but you won't have anything to eat on.............. - I guess we could just have plastic utensils and I could bring some of my pans........ or I was thinking we could stack them (boxes) in your garage (nicely), and then it would be easy for you to get stuff and put it away, as you need it?  What do you think??  Maybe all the stuff you would need is downstairs in Tonya's bedroom??  I'm not sure.  I know it's no big deal, but I just wanted to have it be as nice as possible for you two.  You know that Mother's Day is the day after you get home, and you know that we will all want to see you and spend alot of the day with you, especially Erika and family who won't be coming home after the airport with us....................  I was thinking maybe we could all pitch in and make food at our homes, and then bring it to your house for dinner??? Without you having to do one single solitary thing........what do you think about that??  Or maybe you will be too tired?   Anyway, we can talk about it as it gets closer.  We are sure getting excited.  Here are some cute pics for you two.

Actually, dad reminds me of ZAC (or vice versa) to a T !!!!!!!!!

Love Gwen

PS - the tattoo is NOT real........hehe :)

Reply from Mom:

It sounds great.  You are always so thoughtful.  I didn't realize just what boxes we had up there but don't overwork yourselves.  You might check in the kitchen cupboards downstairs.  I can't remember if we left dishes there and told Jason and Shelly they could use them if needed.  Anyway, we can hardly wait the closer it gets.  The get together on Mother's Day would be terrific.  Go ahead and stock things and pick up anything you think we will need for the family to eat Sunday (pop, chips, etc) whatever all of you decide.  I believe there is soap, etc. downstairs on the shelves in the fruit room so you shouldn't have to worry about that.  If you want even get paper cups and plates. We really enjoyed the pictures.  Your grandchildren and our great-grandchildren are darling.  Now about our grandson - Landon get a haircut.  You look great with long hair but we are used to seeing the Elders and their missionary haircuts.  We couldn't believe the difference in the East Canyon Creek in just such a short time. Well, guess I had better close and get to bed.  We think of you often and appreciate all you do for us.

 Love, Mom and Dad

 

Dear Mom and Dad,

Remember I told you we'd have to get that log out of the creek??

(see first picture) - April 2nd

 

Well - that won't be necessary NOW !!!

Take a look at the remaining two pics !!! April 22nd

 

Welcome to 2006 Spring in Morgan !!

 

See you later :)

Gwen

 

 

 

Your new Bishop Is……………………………………………………………………….

 Kendall M. Walden

Just sustained yesterday………..  Lance Andersen (Laurie’s boy) is 1^st councilor, and David Shank (whose backyard backs up against Jess Hopkin’s lot/home) is the 2^nd councilor.  They are new.

Anyway, that is the word !!

Love ME

5^th ward is getting one next week……………. Rumor is that 6^th ward will get ours the first week in May – haven’t heard about 8^th ward yet.

Just a note to let you know that I deposited another check from Deseret Mutual for $557.15, and also, registered your 4-wheeler and truck and got the ins. reinstated.

 I got a schedule for the south Morgan Ditch - can't make heads or tails of it...........  Looks like it is scheduled to start on April 7th, but I don't think they have, since we are having SUCH a wet spring.  It snowed again today - 3 different time, snow 1/2 inch.....melt......snow 1/2 inch  ..... melt.....etc. etc. etc.  Do you want me to scan the schedule and send it to you, so you can tell me what to do??  Maybe I should just talk to Jenni, and have her keep me posted??  What do you think??

Landon is going to the Junior Prom this weekend with a Junior, Amy Wright, Kelly and Sherie Wright's daughter.  Here is what Kelly wrote to me about it...............

PS: Your son made my daughter absolutely estatic. The rose was perfect, it exactly matches her dress. Landon came when our entire family (less Mark) was home, and wow, what a deal. Thanks for having such a great young man!

Love Gwen

Gwen,  We are sorry you are having to deal with so many things for us.  Relative to the water, make sure that the plugs are in the lawn next to the natural area so that if Dennis Stevens waters, we won't get water next to the house.  Other than that, it won't hurt anything if nothing is watered until we get home .  Don't worry about trying to fire up the pressurized system, that will wait 3 weeks and 4 days (but who is counting?).

On another subject, we're sure as his mother you feel the same way we do (bursting with love and pride} when we hear what an outstanding young man Landon is.  Let him know how much we love him and appreciate the kind of life he is living,

Thanks again for all that you do.

Love, Mom and Dad

April 17, 2006

Dear Family and Friends,

Well it is 3 a.m. and since I couldn't sleep decided to send you our journal for the past week.  We continue to see new and different things and experience the sweet spirit of the missionaries and members of the Church here.  We are really gaining a deep appreciation for the blessings we have received and are now receiving from the Lord.  The Gospel is true and we have come to realize how important it is and what a privilege it has been to have its teachings and guidance in our lives. 

You are in our prayers and thoughts always.  Elder and Sister Dickson

000_0016 - rye straw stack, they come in all shapes and sizes

100_3770 - stream of bats after they emerged from the cave
100_3791 - group of missionaries in Battambang
100_3804 - Kampong Cham, (left) Sister Hun, Sister Dickson, Sister Leng, Sister Towers and others
100_3815 - Loads of people - it looks scary
100_3818 - Loads of people - I don't envy them
100_3821 - Cashew fruit and nuts in a shell on the bottom of each fruit

April 21, 2006

Well, it's winding down............. I'm thinking of deleting Skype from my computer (haha)

Landon got his Senior pics done last night, and we (Roger, me, Landon) worked with all of the other seniors and their parents over on the river parkway path to clean up to earn funds for operation graduation.(see pic attached)  Also, Zac is getting ready to pour cement (see pics attached)  He is such a handy person.  I don't know if I told you dad, but the console went out in the white car, so he couldn't read the odometer, speedometer, gauges, etc.  He just went to a junkyard and got a new one and put it in, and also installed a new radio/stereo in it.  And then something went on the axle, and he just goes and fixes it !!  He is so handy, reminds me or someone else I know... HEHE.  Tonight Landon has a game at Woods Cross, and then tomorrow is the Junior Prom.  I'll be sure to send pics !!

 Report on Junior Prom

Junior Prom went Great !  Landon took Amy Wright, daughter of Kelly and Sherie Wright (Kelly used to be our county attorney and he is a very great guy – he’s now working for Salt Lake County, and is also the bishop of the singles ward in Mt. Green, Sherie now works part time in our office, and she has helped Landon with school, scholarships, ACT, and is such a great great person)  Michael Rose took Stacy Swapp, she’s from Mt. Green, and Jared Olsen took Mysha Porter, she is Bryon Porter’s girl.  They picked up the girls about 10:30 a.m. in Michael’s grandpa John Wilkinson, 1956? Yellow convertible……………you can imagine that !!  They brought them to the property, where they played volleyball, croquet, and roasted hotdogs and marshmallows.  Then we went up to Cliff Burwell’s and took some pics in that great car, in front of all of those nifty old pumps and signs.  Then they took the girls home to get ready for prom.  They made sure that everyone – even the GIRLS, got to drive the convertible !!  Then they went back and picked the girls up about 5-5:30, and went down to Ye Lion’s Den in Ogden to eat supper.  A bunch of us moms made corsages (Lynelle (Jared’s surrogate mom), Gwen, Vicki, with some BIG help from Vicki Walker, Lynelle’s sister and Robyn Birt, Michael’s cousin, who is a PROFESSIONAL flower arranger) and they were absolutely beautiful, and we made an extra one for Sherie Wright, Amy’s mother, because it was her birthday, and when the kids went to get Amy, they all got out of the car and sang Sherie, Happy Birthday and presented her with a corsage !!  After dinner then came back to the Prom, and of course all of the parents were there to see the Promenade, and they all looked so great !!  They all walk down the aisles with their dates and are introduced, and spotlighted down in front before taking their places on the stage – Juniors on the stage, and escorts in the audience.  When they got down front, Jared knelt before Mysha, as if proposing, and Mysha pretended to swoon.  Michael swept Stacy off her feet – literally, and laid her back in a big DIP, and Landon and Amy did a pirouette – with Landon doing the twirling, because Amy is a little bit taller than him.  It is reported that they had a great time at the dance.  They got their pictures taken at the dance, both group and singles, and I can hardly wait to see them.  All in all it turned out wonderfully, and they all had a great time !!

Note from Amy’s dad (Kelly Wright) to Gwen – email

You’re a crazy lady – what an awesome photoshow! Amy had an incredible time on Saturday (and so did her sister and mother). Landon is one funny guy – but a true gentleman. As a Dad, it was fun to just sit back, (stay out of the way) and let the girls fuss and watch it all unfold. Thanks!  

April 23, 2006

Well, it 11:40 pm on Sunday night..........I couldn't sleep, so I got up and worked on a "photo show" of the Junior Prom, which I will be sending to you.  You will notice that Landon took your advice and got a haircut !!  In fact, Leisa Wilson didn't cut it short enough the first time, so he went back and told her to do some more.  Don't know if you've heard or not, but Chet Adams is the new bishop of the 6th ward.  Mark Wall and Chris Jensen are his counselors.  The 7th ward got their new bishop today, but I haven't heard who it is.  We had a really really great sacrament meeting.  Garret Durrant and Derek Wiscombe both had their mission farewell today.  Garret is going to California, and Derek is going to Samoa.  Tammy Bullock reported on her son, Lawson Bullock's mission in Peru, where things are going well.  Don't know if I told you, but Landon is running a milk delivery truck for Rosehill Dairy two nights a week.  That's where he is now.  He slept from 5:30 pm till 9:20 pm tonight, and will work from 10:30 pm till about 2:30 a.m.  He did it once last week, and really liked it.  Zac has got the shop all cleaned up, and we are looking forward to having you home.  The time seems to be flying..................  I'm tired now, and can't concentrate.

Take care, love me.

April 24, 2006

I woke up at 4:15 a.m and Landon wasn’t home, and I got so worried.  I am such a worrier.  Just like Grandma Dickson………….I called his cell phone, and he didn’t answer.  I didn’t bother leaving a message because he never listens to them, he just looks and saw who called, and USUALLY calls them back.  Well his dad called him at about 5 a.m. and he answered !! Thank goodness.  As usual they just sit around talking after they are done, and Landon doesn’t care about the grey hairs he is giving me !!

Gwen and Family,

We sure love your emails.  You have been so dedicated in always  writing to  us.  We really do appreciate it. We love the pictures you send and are looking forward to seeing our good  looking grandson and the Jr. Prom.  The pictures of Zac's yard makes us so excited to get home and see it in person.  We only wish we could be  there to help him pour cement.  He has helped us so often.  Dad and I can  hardly wait  to get back out to the property and the shop.  

We are glad the car  is  working out for him but hope it isn't proving to be too big of an  expense. It's not - he's glad to have it!

 How is our little Treyson doing?  Treyson is doing great - he's rolling all over, and likes to bounce up  and down when you hold him.  He is ONE BIG BOY !! He is easily spooked, and cries if anyone is loud - it's kind of funny !  Of course I'm always squealing around him, and then he puckers up and that bottom lip comes out and he starts to howl.  

And how is Camryn doing at the  babysitters?  Have things blown over by now? Yes - and we knew they would.  She seems really happy there.  Treyson goes there too.  Camryn has two other little girls (Diane's granddaughters, Reese and Lindsey) who she likes to play with, plus Leslie Hyde's little boy Colton, who will be getting a new baby sister in a few days.  Mitch Clark had his appendix out yesterday, so Diane isn't tending today, which puts us all in a pickle.............Camryn in going to Becky Widdison's (Manda's friend) to play with her little girl who is about the same age.  Shirlee is staying home to watch boy Treyson and Rilee.

 How many deliveries does Landon have to make on his rounds each night.  He goes from North Morgan, around Stoddard Lane, Line Creek, up Milton side of North Morgan Valley Drive to the Y, up Richville and Porterville, and Hardscrabble, and up Hwy 66, then back down 66 to Morgan City and around the city, and then back to the dairy in Mt. Green.  Actual run can be done in 2 1/2 hours if he books it.  I can't remember for sure how many gallons exactly he takes. 

He is such a dependable young man and always does what he should.  Is  he going  to work for Darin Dawson in the mink this summer, or does he have  other  plans. I think he'll move on to bigger and better things.   

I'm glad we will be home for his graduation.  What does he  need for  graduation, do you have anything in mind for us to give him?  Manda is giving him a big duffle bag on rollers, don't know about Zac and CJ, we are hoping to get him a laptop for college, unless you wanted to get him something specifically, you could go in on the laptop??  I don't have any great ideas. 

Thanks for keeping us informed about the new Bishops.  It will be a  great  growing experience for all of them. Chet is Bishop of the 5th ward - I'm sure you caught my error.  Also the 7th ward bishop and first counselor are total new comers, and I don't know them, I know the second counselor is Craig Carter........ Lisa's husband, and Margaret's (Landon's friend) dad. . 

I know Mark and Carrie think a  lot of  Chet Adams and that is good. Well guess I had better close.  Dad has come in a couple of times to  see if> I am ready to go to bed.  We love you and your family so much, and  have> missed all of our family and are looking forward to getting home.   It just  doesn't seem possible that it is getting so close.I know what you mean.........it has passed by quickly -We can say that at this point, huh?

Love you lots!!!  Take care !!. Love, Mom and Dad

April 24, 2006

 Dear Family and Friends,

 As you will be able to see from our journal, nearly everything was put aside for Family History.  It has been a busy week but we were able to get everything accomplished and to the temple on time.  Things are going great here in Cambodia and we are going to hate leaving, but are anxious to see all of you again.  We love hearing from you and sorry we can't keep closer in touch with each of you.  Remember to always live so that you are in tune with the Holy Ghost so he can help you make the right choices everyday as you use your free agency (a precious gift from our Heavenly Father).  We send our love, Elder and Sister Dickson.

 000_0006 - Happy Easter, these clouds are the closest we came to Easter Bunnies.

000_0008 - Typical country cottage, most have hammocks, a table-like platform used for eating and sleeping, and even animals.
000_0015 - Blue barrel object in center is a threshing machine for threshing rice.
100_3698 - Eggs with a skewer in them and cooking on a clay fire stove.  They say the eggs are good but we didn't try them.
100_3736 - Scaffolding made of bamboo so a budda could be carved in the cliff on the side of the mountain.  The AP's climbed to the top and reported that it was quite sturdy.  They had a guide with them.
100_3792 - Missionaries at Battambang.

 

Junior Prom problems, which we were made aware of on Tuesday after Junior Prom

Email from a mother  – Pete's mom to Gwen

On a more serious note…I’m not even sure how to start this. 

I’m not sure what time Landon and Jordan got home on Saturday night, but Pete was not the one who dropped Jordan off at her doorstep, Landon was. 

Steve and I were talking to Pete about the prom last night and were quite shocked and upset about what happened at the end of the evening.  Pete was very hesitant to discuss the evening and it was by total surprise to him that Nick began to report happened.  His statements were, “Pete was ditched by Jordan” and “Landon stole his date.”

Apparently after Jordan and Pete dropped off Kirk and Shantelle, Jordan did not want to go home right away so they drove around town for a short while. Jordan was text messaging on her phone for several minutes, and then asked Pete to drop her off at the Rock Church.  She told Pete that she was going to meet Landon in the parking lot and go with him.

I’m not sure what lead up to this happening, but Pete was stunned needless to say.   Pete said that Jordan did not seem uncomfortable or upset.  She thanked and hugged Pete for the evening as she was getting into the car with Landon.

Steve and I keep trying to put this into perspective, but I need to say that we are sick about this.  Pete is so hurt and humiliated.  He is embarrassed to go to school, and doesn’t quite know what the heck happened.

We have been pumping up this prom for months.  Pete is shy with the girls and didn’t want to go in the first place, and we kept at him, telling him that the Junior Prom was a big deal and one of the most memorable moments in his high school experience.  Not only that, but this event was really the first “real date” he has ever had.  This is not what the way it should have ended. 

We have always thought so highly of Landon and we were completely taken aback that Landon would be a party in a thing like this.  This lack of consideration by both Landon and Jordan has really done a number on Pete.  He kept asking us why his “friends” would do a thing like this. 

We don’t know what Jordan was text messaging to Landon and we don’t know exactly what prompted him to pick her up.  We do know there are two sides to every story, but not knowing the other side, we can only tell you that it appears to be very thoughtless and inappropriate of both Landon and Jordan.  

Gwen, I feel so terrible about this that I needed to get it off my chest. I told Pete that I would be contacting you and he was very hesitant to agree to it.  He wasn’t’ even going to tell us about it for fear it would become an even bigger mess.  After everything that has happened, he had doesn’t want to jeopardize his friendship with Landon any further. 

Josie – I’m so glad you said something.  I had no idea.  I read your email last night (Tues) about 11pm and was just sick. Landon came home shortly after that from baseball at Vernal.   We told him we needed to talk, and he said, “Is this about Pete _____?” and we said yes.   He said he had just spoken with Pete, and that everything was okay, but I’m guessing this is just Landon’s take on it, and not necessarily Pete’s.   Landon said he had been getting razzed by everyone about stealing Pete’s date, and he was concerned about this, and talked to Pete about what happened. Landon’s version is this.  

After Landon’s date was over, he was going to go up to Sean’s and hang out and watch a movie.  He said that Jordan texted him – he did not say what she said in the text, that her date was over??  Who knows…… , but suffice to say, he did meet her at the church and they went up and hung out with kids and then he took her home.  I think that is a horrible way to end a date !  I do believe Landon when he says that he and Jordan are just friends, and this was not pre-planned or anything – but grab a clue Landon!!  How does this make Pete feel?   I posed the question to him, “What if last year on your Junior Prom, Tana had said she didn’t want to go home, and then you drove around, and as you are driving, she is texting someone, and then she just says just pull over, and jumps out and gets in the car with one of your senior friends, and says TaTa !!”  Duh – light bulb comes on…………  You think a 17 year old boy would have more sense – but I guess sometimes they just don’t think of all of the feelings that are involved.  He thought it was no big deal………..so apparently Pete would too?? Landon didn’t say this to me (the preceding sentence) but I’m just surmising….  I’m so disappointed and sorry.  Sometimes I think Landon is too friendly and approachable for his good.   Landon now realizes that he made a very poor decision in picking Jordan up, I don’t know what he would have said to her, maybe – NO  !!!  What a twit – I don’t even KNOW the girl, and I want to shake her !! and Landon both.  I think he has learned an important lesson.  Anyway, Landon wanted to come to see both you and Steve, to let you know how sorry he is about what happened, so he will probably come over tonight if you are home.  I hope that this will not affect our friendship and that you can hopefully forgive my son, and that with time, it may not seem as upsetting – because believe you me, I am WAY upset right now. Thank you again for making us aware of this situation. Gwen

Gwen,  Thanks for responding so promptly.  Yes, both Steve and I would like to have a chat with Landon, however, I am staying in SLC tonight.  Maybe he can make some time tomorrow after the game.   Josie