Merry Week of Christmas 2012

Our Mansfield Thiots
Several times this week we have gotten a photo of the fun activities going on in Redding while Ricky's family is visiting Becky's family.  My only concern is that they may NOT want to come home tomorrow.  From Hot Tubbing to playing in the snow to riding four wheelers, and lots of snuggling with Nana and Papa.  Becky's family surely knows how to have a fun Christmas Holiday.  I'm so glad our Mansfield Thiot's got to be there with ALL of Becky's family this week.  What great memories they have made that will last for all eternity.  I am looking forward to seeing you all tomorrow night at the airport.  I've loved driving around this week with your car seats in my car girls.  Sometimes I just visit with you, pretending you are in  my back seat.  Oh I LOVE you and miss you!

Our Lovers Lane Granges
What a delight it was to have the Granges in town for Christmas.  Miss Penny was so much fun.  She is a very fun age for a Christmas celebration.  She loved her new fisher price farm and her vacuumn and her blocks, but the biggest hit of all was her Woody doll from Toy Story.  She loves that movie and was delighted to have her very own.  I remember when my brother Jeffrey was a tiny little boy and got a Woodie Woodpecker for Christmas.  He talked and made that funny laugh that only Woodie could do.  Uncle Jeff and Penny both love Woodies.  Fun fun!  We enjoyed taking Penny's family to see the 3-D version of Finding Nemo on Christmas afternoon.  Penny was so cute gobbling up popcorn and loved it every time Nemo came on the screen.  She'd call out his name and everyone in the theatre would giggle.  They all loved watching Nemo with our sweet Penny.

Our Carmichael Thiots
Christmas morning we were able to watch Charlie's family open their gifts from us.  It was almost, not quite as much fun as being there with them.  Thank you Charlie for making that possible for us to be there with you  I LOVED watching Calllum unwrap his GIANT sized Dump Truck.  I think Charlie was about 2 when he got his first Tonka Dumper and was equally as thrilled.  I loved seeing Keelie open her new doll and its cute clothes and white fur coat.  Oh my, what fun she will have playing with her, I hope.  I hunted and hunted to find a brown eyed girl for my little Californina brown eyed girl.  I love you two so much!  Graypa said we need to plan a long weekend and come for a visit.  I don't think I can wait much longer to get my arms around you.

Our L.A. Thiots
We had a fun face time visit with Stacy and Pierce on Christmas night.  They were leaving first thing the next morning for a week in Utah.  We've had reports from a couple of family  members with Pierce and Stacy sightings.  Kathy P called me and said they had stopped by and she loved it.  Sky got to meet up with them for dinner at Zuppas, Kara had to work and  missed them, and Gram and Grandpa enjoyed spending Friday evening with them.  Pierce has loved spending time on the ski slopes snow boarding.  He's sent some incredible photos that both Dick and I have loved seeing.  They will head back home tomorrow early in the morning.  Travel safely you two. 

Our Provo Thiots
Happy Anniversary to Sky and Kara TODAY!  One year of wonderful memories down and an eternity to go.  I spoke with Sky on Friday night and he was having fun making plans for their anniversary.  He sure knows how to make Kara happy.  Thursday morning they went to the Salt Lake Temple to celebrate Kara's one year anniversary of going to the temple.  What a delightful surprise it was to see Laurie and Mike and Jordan and Jamie there going on the same session as they were.  That made it extra special.  There is nothing like family to make special memories.

We Empty Nest Thiots
One of the best parts of our Christmas Week was having a whilte Christmas.  Elder Larsen who just moved in 3 weeks ago is from Bountiful, Utah and said he had never NOT had a white Christmas, so I credit our white Christmas to him.  We lost our power for  afew hours, but it happened right after we had finished our Christmas lunch.  It went off again while we were getting ready to fix dinner.  Dick fired up the grill and was able to make Lani's famous Christmas Chile and Cheese dip outside.  Thanks Dick, it tasted even better than usual. 
It's hard to believe in a few more days, it will be 2013.  I am looking forward to this new year and hope it will be filled with many good memories.  I listened to a talk this morning on BYU TV about being Grandparents.  George Durrant is a wonderful teacher and speaker.  His son Devan Durrant is currently serving as our Texas Dallas Mission president.  I taped his talk and told Dick we need to listen to it often.  Being a Grammy is my favorite job and I hope to get better at it this year.  Have a wonderful week.  Happy New Year!  SLY Robynn

Only Two more Sleeps 'til Christmas

Our Mansfield Thiots
On Saturday afternoon, Ricky, Brooklyn and Addison headed north for some finishing touches on Ricky's Christmas shopping for Becky.  The "big" girls wanted to come along and they stopped by our home to deliver Dick's Christmas gift.  It was this nifty purification straw to put in our Prepardness kit.  WOWSERS!  What a great invention.  Thanks Ricky!  Anyway, while they were here, I asked Ricky if it might be helpful to them if Brooklyn and Addison spent the night with us and then I could bring them home in the morning when I picked up their family and delivered them to the airport.  Ricky called home and permission was granted.  What fun it was to have two little ladies last night.  We had dinner with our missionaires and then made a mad dash to walmart to find some PJ's as they hadn't planned on staying over.  Then back home and we filled up the bath tub with bubbles and turned on the jets.  The girls LOVED it.  By them graypa had returned and we hoped in the car and went to look at Christmas lights.  What could be more fun after Christmas lights than Ice Cream, nothing we could think of so we stopped in for Ice Cream cones at McDonalds.  YUMMY, then home to watch the Muppets Christmas Carol.  A little spookie but fun.  We were simply too tired to watch it all, so we woke up early this morning to finish it.  We all agreed, it was wonderful.  Then we made the yummiest Reindeer Pancakes that Aunt Lani had taught us about.  We all enjoyed those and even Rocky liked the left overs.  What a lot of fun we packed into that fun sleepover. Thank you Ricky and Becky for sharing your darling daughters with us.  Have a wonderful week in California!  We miss you already!

Our Dallas Granges
Jake, Tatia and Penny will be our only Thiots/Granges in town for the Christmas Holiday.  We are excited to join them for Tatias famous Taco Soup on Christmas Eve and we will get to see them again on Christmas.  Hooray!  I'm sure Penny is going to just LOVE Christmas this year.  She's quite good at opening presents and I'm sure will be thrilled with whatever Santa brings her.  Jake and Tatia took her to North Park Mall for Story time with Santa on Saturday  She was quite enchanted with him and didn't seem frightened at all.  Go Penny. 

Our Carmichael Thiots
I'm happy, or should I say DELIGHTED to report that as I am typing the Thiot Times, The Mansfield Thiots and the Carmichael Thiots are TOGETHER!.  I made Brooklyn and Addison promise me they would give Keelie and Callum lots of hugs and kisses when they saw them today.  I'll never forget bringing our family to Utah for visits and I always was amazed how quickly cousins were best friends.  It didn't take too many minutes.  That is just what I am hoping is happending with my little grandchildren being together today.  Those little ladies are so close in age, they can't help but be good friends and I know Callum will also be a hit with them.  He is so stink'n cute.  We all adore him.

Our L.A. Thiots
It was great seeing Stacy on Monday night at the Christmas celebration.  She brought a YUMMY salad that I'm hoping she will share the recipe for.  Delish! Pierce phoned home Saturday afternoon and I loved getting to catch up with him and Stacy.  He was telling me that they have some fun plans for Christmas day which include Surfing in the morning. Two years ago when our whole family went to San Fransciso, some or the braver Thiots went surfing.  Pierce really loves it and Stacy does too, they are just perfect for being our Southern California kids.  Have a safe trip to Utah the Day after Christmas.  Be so careful driving.

Our Provo Thiots
It was so much fun having Sky and Kara home for almost a week.  The time went past way to fast and before we knew it, we were hugging them at the airport telling them goodbye. They were sure kind to try to share their time equally with Kara's family and ours.  We loved every minute they were here.  Kara made the most amazing nativity bunting I've ever seen.  She is so clever and talented.  I'm going to see if Sky will send me a photo to share.  Way cute.  Her mom is one lucky gal.  So fun!  They enjoyed a trip to the new Perot Science Museum with Tatia, Jake and Penny and went and cheered the Dallas Mavericks on to a victory and many other things, I can't recall right now. 

We Empty Nesters
I had the funest experience on Saturday morning.  I was dropping off some Christmas gifts to some dear friends and family and stopped by the Royals home.  I was invited in by two of the most excited little boys you've ever met.  Oliver and MIles are so fun and excited for Christmas.  My Christmas spirit increased by 100% just visiting them for an hour.  I left there with my arms filled with treasures.  Pammy has learned to make Peppermint Soap.  It almost looks to cute to use.  It smells delish.  I can't wait to use it.  She made her mom's Aunt Kayes Party mix that is so yummy and Oliver hooked me up with two packages of Pop Rocks, ready for a party in my mouth any time.  What a neat family they are.  I loved being there with them.  Thank you Royal Texans!
Dick has been busy at work and with Tithing Settlement at church. Another blessing at church comes in the form of getting to pass out things to those in need.  Many ward members are so generous to help others and it becomes his blessing to share those things.  Thankfully, the Lord lets him know who could use some extra blessings this season. As I'm typing, there is a little white fluffy dog down on the ground by my feet snoring away.  Mr Rocky has become a fun member of our family.  He's good company to an old gal who is home along more than she would like.  Thanks Rocky!  Have a very Merry Christmas everybody.  Sure Love you, Robynn

It's not very long until Christmas!

Our Mansfield Thiots

Ricky has been busy this week with sending out his resume and scheduling interviews.  I’ve always been impressed by Ricky’s positive attitude in times of trial and hardship.  Becky is a wonderful supportive wife who I admire in difficult times too.  With three loving little daughters, how could he be discouraged?  They all think he is the very best.  I’m sure something great is heading their way. 

Our Lovers Lane Granges

Last Sunday night, Tatia and Penny came over to borrow some things for her Ward Christmas Party that she was in charge of.  While she was here, I had an inspiration of a way I might could be of help to her and kind of a selfish way too, I asked if I could take Miss Penny with me to Utah.  Penny is not yet two and can still fly free on your lap.  Tatia asked if I was serious or if I was just kidding.  I have to admit, I was surprised and DELIGHTED that she trusted me with her most valuable possession in the whole world for five days.  Tatia went home and checked with Jake who was in Denver preparing for his final interview.  He gave her two thumbs up and she called me back and said it’s a GO!  Dick and I loved picking her up early Monday morning and the fun didn’t stop all week long.  Thank you Tatia and Jake for my favorite Christmas gift of a darling granddaughter for a week. 

Our Carmichael Thiots

When we arrived home from our trip, there was a pile of Christmas cards waiting for us.  I loved opening one from Mackenzie’s family, the Smith’s.  So fun to see pictures of our grandchildren that we share with them.  What a great family.  Then on Saturday came one from Char and Kenz, that was a double bonus to see those darling little people again.  What a blessing my family is to me. After the incident in Connecticut earlier this week, I think my little people have been on my mind more than ever.  My heart is so sad for those families who lost their little ones. I just wish I could put my arms around my little ones.

Our LA Thiots

Stacy was part of a wonderful surprise this week.  Stacy’s younger sister returned from her mission in Sacramento California on Wednesday.  Stacy, being a bit sneaky, was able to purchase the airplane seat next to Sister Brinkerhoff’s and SURPRISE her at the ticket counter.  I can only imagine what a thrill that was for BOTH sisters.  I’m so glad it worked out that Stacy could come.  We are getting excited to see her tomorrow night as we celebrate an Early Christmas with our Texas Thiots.

Our Provo Thiots

One of the best parts about coming back home from Utah was to bring Sky and Kara along with us.  Kara’s auntie who works for American airlines, was able to arrange for them to sit right in front of us on the flight home.  That made it extra fun while traveling with Miss Penny.  She loves Aunt Kara & Uncle Sky and the movies he put on his I-Pad for her to watch.  Good thinking Sky!  Kara had been sick earlier in the week, and we were so grateful that she was feeling well enough to travel.  It’s sure fun to have them here.  Some extra good news for me is that Kara’s family is remodeling their home and still in transition so we are lucky enough to get to have them stay with us.  They are going back and forth to Arlington. We are happy to share them and it’s so fun to have them here.  They brought home a bag of cinnamon smelling pinecones and their bedrooms smells like Christmas.  It’s a great smell!

We Empty Nesters

This has been a week that I will never forget for as long as I live.  I loved getting to be in Utah for my little brother’s wedding.  It was so fun to see so many family members while I was there.  I loved being “home” .  I loved staying at my Mom and Dad’s and getting to be with them, the two people who have taught me so much about being who I am.  I love and admire them so much.  I loved having a Christmas dinner with them and my siblings.  It was sure fun to add Jenn to our family.  The fondue or Fundoo Dinner tasted wonderful and the company was the very best.  Dick and I took Miss Penny to see the lights on Temple square on Wednesday night.  My only wish was that I could have had all my little grandchildren with me.  What  a beautiful sight to see the lights and the temple. It was a site that I loved.  We also had the opportunity to go to Heber City to see a dear friend baptized.  Dick was asked to perform that sacred ordinance and did a great job.  She was nervous of the water and he calmed her and helped her feel at ease. I’m so glad we were there. Now it’s Sunday night and only 9 days until Christmas.  I need to get busy. 

Saturday I was invited to help surprise a dear friend of mine who was celebrating her birthday.  Her sweet daughter called and invited me and I was so glad that I could go.  Mary is such a wonderful person.  She used to be my back door neighbor, she has since moved but will forever be my favorite neighborlady.  I loved getting to spend some time with her and her family and friends.

As I am typing, the President of the United States just finished speaking to the community in Connecticut.  What a deep filled loving message he gave to those dear people. I don’t know if I’ve ever felt prouder of our President.

Have a wonderful week before Christmas ya’ll! SLY Robynn

Count Down to Christmas

Our Mansfield Thiots

Ricky was on his way to San Antonio on Monday morning when his  cell phone rang.  It was his boss telling him they had closed down the sales department of his company and they would no longer need his services and that he could turn around and go home.  This is not a phone call that you ever want to get especially so close to the Christmas Holidays.  With Ricky’s great attitude, and hard work, he’s sure to find an even better job soon.  I wish I had a magic wand and could find him one in a jiffy.  Thank you for keeping him and his sweet family in your prayers.

Our Lovers Lane Granges

Penny and Tatia came and spent Monday and Tuesday with us while Jake was off to Stanford interviewing for a Residency there.  He was coming down with a cold and didn’t feel his best but said it went well. What a beautiful part of the country.  They wouldn’t mind a bit if that is where they land. Jake has a couple of more interviews before he can rank his favorite possibilities.  Tatia has put a fun Christmas activity in her count down to Christmas each day.  On Monday it was to help someone “old” put up their Christmas decorations.  Boy was I glad to qualify for t heir helpfulness.  I’m happy to report my tree is up and looking so pretty.  Tatia has a gift of decorating trees.  Thank you Tatia and Penny for your loving service.

Our Carmichael Thiots

For Christmas, Charlie’s family decided to go to Disneyland.  Instead of going when everyone else goes, they went last week and found much shorter lines and had lots and lots of good time and made lots of good memories.  Mackenzie’s parents went with which made for an even better time and four extra hands to help with little ones.  Pierce and Stacy were delighted to get to spend a few hours with them on Sunday afternoon before they headed back home.

Our LA Thiots

Pierce and Stacy have been enjoying getting their home ready for Christmas.  They bought a beautiful Christmas tree and it smells and looks so pretty.  They have some darling ornaments that they have collected over the past four  years and they look awesome on the tree.  It was fun to get to face time with them and take a tour of their home.  Technology is remarkable and is almost, not quite as fun as being there is person.

Our Provo Thiots

Skyler and Kara must be super busy as I have not heard much from them this week.  I’m so looking forward to getting to see them this week while we are in Salt Lake for my baby brothers wedding.  That will be fun to get to visit their Christmas Home too.  Sky was a life saver to me last week.  One of my favorite things to do is help my mom with her Christmas card.  I always think I can do things, but usually end up calling in the professionals and I am so grateful that Sky was willing to help. It turned out way cute.  Thanks so much Skyler!

We Empty Nesters

A Christmas tradition that Dick and I have enjoyed for the past four years is going to Bethlehem for an evening.  I know, the real Bethlehem couldn’t be too much better than the one in Waxahachie, Texas.  It was delightful to be there with our grandchildren and our adopted grandchildren too.  There is a wonderful spirit there. It was a bit different this year as it was 80 degrees last Saturday evening.  We usually go all bundled up and enjoy the hot chocolate and the fires that the shepherds have burning.  This year we wished for fans instead of fires.  It was fun in short sleeves but somehow the Christmas spirit was a little different in the heat.  Not to worry, we have the promise of SNOW tomorrow morning just in time for us to head to the airport.  I hope they are teasing us and that the flight will not be delayed. 

We have two elders, one from Utah Elder Larsen and one from Colorado who can’t believe this weather.  They are sporting around in short sleeves and are loving the bike rides.  They are loving it!

I’m getting excited to head to Salt Lake tomorrow morning.  I’ve been hoping my little brother would find someone as wonderful as he is to marry and live happily ever after with.  I’m thrilled to add Jenn as a new sister in our big family.  What a fun date they have picked to be married on December 12, 2012 at 12:00 noon.  How amazing will that be?  I only wish our whole family could have been able to come to be there with them.  Sky and Kara will represent our Thiot Kids and I’m grateful that Dick and I can attend. 

Today I have sharing time in primary.  We are talking about the scripture found in Luke 2 about Jesus growing in Wisdom and Stature and in favour with God and with Man.  I have loved reading the scriptures about the Savior growing up.  We don’t know that much about his youth, but oh how I love him. I’m looking forward to Primary today.  I hope you have a lovely new week.  SLY Robynn