Lennis & Patty Jones Family

Peer Pressure

2011-01-11T11:35:00.000-08:00

So I have finally caved. I have given in to peer pressure. I have started my very own blog where I go off on tangents on any subject that happens to cross my little pea brain at that particular moment. Visit me if you'd like.

pj-mamajones.blogspot.com

The Big 5-0 on 10-10-10

2010-10-12T06:28:00.001-07:00

I honestly cannot believe I am 50 years old! 50! Do you know how old that is? WOW!

AnnDee decided I needed a surprise birthday party which was also a funeral. The house was decorated with black balloons, black streamers, and complete with a tombstone birthday cake and crying guests. There were so many friends and family members there--I am very overwhelmed and feel extremely blessed. I was VERY surprised!

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for being a part of my life!

I am so blessed!

My AMAZING Uncle Ron models my old lady glasses!

My wonderful Aunt Zina and I pose for a picture. I lOVE this lady!

AnnDee made this wonderful cake for me!

This is the real me in the 'coffin' next to the skeleton me!

Grammy with her boy. LOVE this kid!

Lennis watches over the crazy kids! AnnDee, Lyndsie, and Micah.

TERRIFIC neighbors! Brent, Dave, Dean, Cecilia, and Dena!

Yep, 50 years old....am I wise yet?

The FINAL Countdown is on!

2010-09-27T06:38:00.001-07:00

Almost 2 years ago, I made this chart in the hope that it would help time to go a little faster while Ian was gone on his mission to Brazil. Each month as fast sunday came, our family would take turns crossing off the month.

Yesterday, Lyndsie, Micah and I each took a swipe at the last month of the chart. Do you have any idea what a great feeling that was?

The chart is now complete, every month meticuliously crossed off. In 3 weeks I board a plane to Brazil to see my son who I haven't seen for 2 years!

Do you know how long 2 years is?

And NO it did not go fast!!

Yes, I'm ready for some FOOTBALL!

2010-08-31T07:00:00.001-07:00

FINALLY! Football season is here! I couldn't be happier!

This is a perfect picture. This is Micah's common stance--notice football in hand!

Jones hands off to Romney!

Jones goes back for a pass!

Checking out the team.

The Freshman Viking football team played their first game last Saturday against Timpanogos. The result....Vikings win 51-0!

Yes, my friends...the only reason to LOVE fall is FOOTBALL!! (Oh and that Ian comes home this fall is a GREAT reason too!)

Happy Birthday, Lennis!

2010-07-12T08:15:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's true. Lennis turned 50 recently. We had a special family birthday dinner for him--fried chicken, his favorite!

There are really 50 candles on this cake!

Pup, Lennis and Eli. I love this picture because this is their most natural state...pup sitting next to Lennis, Lennis with his camera, and Eli investigating stuff!

Gotta love Code's hat! I LOVE these two!

Moo and Lou, fighting over the hammock.

Aunt Louise and Mr. Eli

Mommy is helping Eli water the flowers!

Eli can't decide between the doggies and the wading pool!

Eli 'riding' Blue!

This was such a fun day! We had yummy food. We sat around in the yard and talked, and laughed at Eli. Lennis took pictures, Micah and Lyndsie wrestled in the hammock, Eli played naked in the wading pool...I LOVE MY LIFE!

Happy Birthday, Lennis! Can I keep you?

Thoughts on Being a Grandma

2010-06-22T08:15:00.000-07:00

I turn 50 years old this year, which is only fitting since I am now a Grandma!

One of the most amazing things ever was watching as my firstborn grew a new life within her, and became a mother, and Devon became a father. Elijah, what a gift from God!

AnnDee is an amazing mom!

And this little man grew.....

...and he began to smile...

...and he began to laugh...

...and he began to crawl...

...and daily he discovers the wonders of God's creations...

...and now he walks...

...and brings unspeakable joy to his Grammy!

Yep, being Grammy is just about the best thing EVER!

Summertime!

2010-06-02T14:14:00.000-07:00

Fireworks last 4th of July!

I LOVE summer! I think it is just about the best time of year.

Here is the 'short' list of what I love about summer:

*Fireworks
*Watermelon
*Swimming Pools
*Strawberry Days
*Finally being warm!

*Fresh fruit
*REAL tomatoes from my garden
*Green grass
*flowers in my yard
*4th of July
*24th of July
*Camping Trips
*Family Reunions
*Micah and his friends partying at my house
*Sitting in the porch swing

And that's just the 'short' list! I LOVE SUMMER!

Thyroid Cancer

2010-05-05T08:58:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's true! Lennis has yet one more malady to add to his list of health problems. Truly, this is unbelieveable. When I found out all I could say is..."Really, no really?" (add sarcastic tone for true effect)

The good news is that it is treatable, and not with chemo, but with an iodine based drug that destroys the papillary carcenoma cells. This drug does not have the side effects that chemo does--good news!

Surgery is the other thing that is needed. Lennis will have surgery this Monday, May 10th. Most likely they will remove his thyroid and check the surrounding lymph nodes for cancer. If affected, they too will be removed. He will probably be in the hospital for a few days.

I've been told that if one has to have cancer, that this is the one to get as it has a 95% cure rate. Well, that's good, but could we just have avoided the cancer altogether?

Berlin, the Musical

2010-02-08T15:06:00.000-08:00

Berlin, The Musical

Before Ian left for his mission, he had the wonderful experience of one year of college at BYU. He auditioned and was accepted into the MDT Program (Music, Dance, Theater). The kids in the program had the opportunity to work with Erik Orton, playwriter and former BYU student, in his musical, Berlin. In conjunction with the LDS Motion Picture Studio, the play was filmed and has been shown several times on KBYU. We saw the production when it was being filmed. Recently the production was shown at the LDS Film Festival, at the Scera Theater in Orem. Ian has been in Brazil on his mission for 16 months. To watch him on the 'big' screen after not seeing him for that long was a very emotional experience for me.

The soundtrack was just released and is available on itunes! What a fun thing for a mom who is missing her son, to hear him sing on a professional recording!

for more information: http://www.berlinthemusical.com/

This is what he is doing now... As all missionary moms know, I miss this boy so much. BUT, I wouldn't want him to be anywhere else in the world! I am proud of you, son!

PRIVATE BLOG

2010-01-14T08:04:00.001-08:00

Hey Friends,

I am going to make my blog private. If you would like to continue to view our family blog, please leave a comment and let me know.

Thanks!
Patty

Thoughts...

2010-01-12T15:14:00.001-08:00

I'm feeling like I want to post a few random thoughts....

I love classical music
I miss football
I am very, very tired of the cold
I am not feeling very strong today
I am too emotional
I love freshly baked cookies
I really miss Ian, 9 1/2 months to go!
I feel ungrateful because I love my job but I hate to go to work
I am jealous of stay-at-home moms
I freeze all the time, I am never warm
I am amazed by how wonderful people are

Random, yes.

Why I Love This Girl!

2009-11-16T15:42:00.000-08:00

There are TONS of reasons I love this girl...here are just a few!

She loves to be silly!

She is always smiling!

She LOVES chocolate chip cookie dough!

She likes chocolate, and diet coke!

She is fun loving!

She is so photogenic!

She has the most beautiful eyes, ever!

I love my Lou Lou!

Why I love this boy

2009-11-05T13:38:00.001-08:00

There are many, many reasons that I love this kid! Here are a few....

1. Cause he LOVES ribs!

2. Cause he LOVES football!

3. Cause he looks GOOD in hats!

4. Cause he can kick!

5. Cause he chooses WONDERFUL friends!

6. Cause he looks good with bleached for football hair!

7. Cause he goes to the PG City fireworks when he doesn't want to and doesn't pout!

Oh wait, that is definitely pouting! (love the football)

8. Cause he LOVES chocolate!

Yes, I think I'll keep him!

More than you ever wanted to know about Crohn's Disease...

2009-10-28T11:42:00.000-07:00

Since Crohn's Disease has been a part of my life with Lennis for more than 30 years now, I thought I'd post a small rant about it. (Yes, I guess I am ranting a lot lately!)

http://www.crohnsdiseasefocus.com/articles/about-crohns-disease/crohns-disease-symptoms.php

This website is a good one to answer questions about symptoms, what the disease actually is, etc.

Lennis had Crohn's Disease for three years before it was diagnosed. We had been married 6 months when he was finally correctly diagnosed. We have been married for 27 years. That's 30 years worth of Crohn's. bleh...

Chronic illness, including Crohn's Disease, robs the sufferer of dignity, self-esteem, the enjoyment of everyday things, a pain-free life, and many other things. However, it teaches patience, love, appreciation for the scarce, pain-free times, endurance, charity, and faith.

Yes, I said faith. Heavenly Father allows trials so we can grow--so we can become like Him--which was our greatest desire in the pre-existance. I admit that most of the time I am sick of growing and don't want to progress if it means the suffering that comes with it. How fortunate I am to have a Guide that knows all, and sees the big picture. My mortal eyes cannot see the important, eternal things--but His can, and He will led us all home, if we allow Him to.

Even though Lennis and I know this, it is still a struggle everyday. Discouragement seems to be a constant companion, while fighting to overcome depression, and hopelessness seems to be in vain. He is in the hospital again for the second time this month--discouragement abounds. Even when he is not hospitalized, his quality of life is what my sweet daughters would say "not so much".

So...., even though we get so very discouraged, and feel we cannot handle all the pressures, trials,and struggles that Crohn's Disease brings to our family, We vow to let Him led us home to His care, to His love, to His rest. Lennis and I will make it through Crohn's Disease and whatever else may come--because our Savior lives, knows us, and loves us. He alone has made it possible to come home to our Heavenly Father--home to His rest.

"I need Thee every hour"

We will be ok.

Observations

2009-10-26T15:26:00.000-07:00

It is sunny and pretty outside today
Lyndsie visited me today--I miss her
I miss Ian--he has been in Brazil for one year this Wednesday
I hate chronic illness--it really sucks
I'm not feeling very strong today
It is suppose to snow tomorrow
Micah has a football game tomorrow--guess it will be in the snow
I will have some yummy hot chocolate tomorrow--in honor of the snow
I want to put up my Christmas tree
If it snows then it is legal to put up my Christmas tree.....right?

Gotta love fall!

2009-10-23T11:06:00.000-07:00

Here is the cutest little grandson ever, with his first pumpkin ever!

I love this little man!

A Rant About Football

2009-10-21T14:08:00.000-07:00

Tackle football is played with pads, lots and lots of pads.

You have your

two knee pads,

two thigh pads,

two hip pads,

even a tailbone pad---and that's just the pants!

Then there's

the shoulderpads

and anything else the player may add such as

arm pads,

wrist pads,

look wow I'm cool arm bands,

a flack jacket,

rib pads,

yes there are lots and lots of pads.

Then there's the helmet! It is filled with padding,

special padding,

complete with a chin strap.

Don't even get me started on the dozens and dozens of types of braces a player can wear.

Why, you may ask, do I rant about this? I am getting to that.

Tackle football is a CONTACT sport. They pad the boys up. The are suppose to hit the other player--after all that's most of the fun .

If I went to a

BYU football game,

a Pleasant Grove High School football game or even

a little league football game, I would EXPECT the players to hit and tackle each other.

Wouldn't you?

Why then, oh most holy of referees (yes I'm talking about last night's game), do you throw the penalty flag

again,

and again,

because the players, the padded up players, hit and tackle each other?

Time to get out my referee shirt....I'm hitting the field!

(Thanks, I feel a little better.)

Pictures

2009-10-16T07:45:00.001-07:00

This is Pleasant Grove--this is where I live!

This is BYU--this is where I work!

I live and work in heaven!! I LOVE my life!

"There must needs be oppostion in all things..."

2009-10-15T09:32:00.000-07:00

I Love:
grandbabies
my family
my friends
my job
Pleasant Grove
football
to be warm
going to the pool
that I have a missionary son serving in Brazil
BYU
the smell of rain

I Hate:
that I am cold all the time
that my old body is falling apart
that I feel lazy most days
that Lone Peak beat PG in football last night...SOOOO lame!
that my house is not organized like I want it to be
dog hair
weeds, especially bind weed
chronic illness
when no email comes from Brazil on Monday
the smell of coffee
bad grammar

Just saying....

Random Thoughts

2009-10-13T15:56:00.000-07:00

I decided about 30 seconds ago that I would post some random thoughts...just cause.

Random Thoughts (idea stolen from Tess)

1. You may have noticed that I have very few ideas of my own...I steal good ideas from others!

2. I love my 3 doggies, but still can't figure out how we ended up with that many.

3. I HATE dog hair! (go figure, see #2)

4. I painted my living room this spring and have still not hung my pictures because I can't figure out where to put them and how to make them look good.

5. I have no patience with parents who do NOT watch their kids. You cannot believe how many parents let their kids run wild in the Museum (where I work). It also amazes me that they let their kids climb on the furniture here. I see it EVERY day! Unbelievable!!

6. Even though I love the shoes I wore today, I don't think they match my outfit very well--hope no one noticed.

7. I never get everything done that I need to do--frustrating!

8. I am really good at being lazy lately!

9. I have four BYU Football posters hanging in my office. I bet that is a huge surprise!!

10. I really like Lennis!

Inspired...

2009-10-09T08:58:00.000-07:00

Ok, I have to admit that I faithfully follow several blogs. Checking your blogs has become my obsession--I check them daily. Because of this you have all inspired me! Several of you write such neat/cool things about your life, your dreams, random thoughts. I LOVE reading your blogs, so I've decided to give it a try.

Confessions: (idea stolen from Brandie)

1. I am addicted to Facebook. Yes, it's true. I check it about 3 times a day! I LOVE keeping up with everyone!

2. I am aware that almost no one reads my blog--which is mostly ok. I do it for mostly for me anyway.

3. I am totally bugged when people use the word "anyways" when it should be "anyway".

4. I often mourn the fact that I was never able to be what I wanted to be the very most--a stay at home mom. Then I feel guilty because I have so many other blessings! (and I really do love my job!)

5. I am obsessed with Musical Theater--I can blame my Mom for my original interest and my son, Ian in my renewed interest. My childhood is filled with memories of listening and dancing to tons of music, especially "Fiddler on the Roof", "Hair", "Oklahoma", etc. My latest passions are "Next to Normal", "Aida", "Phantom of the Opera", and "Les Miserable". I would spend a week in New York every year and go to musicals on Broadway if I could!

6. I am addicted/obsessed with football! I love football, all football, any football! I have actually figured out how to watch football EVERY day of the week in the fall!

7. I secretly want to be a football referee! (see number 6 above)

8. I will post several more confessions later about my obsession with football!!

9. I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE, being a Grandma! Just call me Grammy!

10. I am SOOOO proud of my kids and their righteous choices. They bring me great joy!

Labor Day at Bennion!

2009-09-22T09:13:00.000-07:00

On Labor Day we joined family at Bennion Creek for lots of card playing, singing, and a whole lot of laughing! It is such a fun time!

Brandie's family brought their new puppy, Brewsky!

Now this is camping! (Gotta love the fridge in the background!)

Micah holds a sleeping Brewsky while playing cards!

Yay for our banjo players, Justin and Darrin!

New Pioneer Day Tradition!

2009-08-11T08:44:00.000-07:00

For Pioneer Day this year, in addition to our traditional Cul-De-Sac BBQ, we had a pie eating contest. This consists of paper plates loaded with chocolate pudding and whipped cream. Everyone lays in a circle on their tummies and eats the 'pie' with no hands. At the conclusion of the contest, a gigantic pudding fight ensued! It was the best!!

Lyndsie modeling the latest in pudding wear!

Micah looks good in pudding too!

'Sweet' kisses!

Trent and Lyndsie

Gramma Pete's Reunion Party

2009-07-20T08:20:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, July 18, 2009, we celebrated Gramma Pete's birthday with a family reunion. We had a wonderful time with wonderful family--and even Gramma would have been proud at the amount of laughing we did!

Eli, the football player!

AnnDee keeping cool--it was hot!

Joni & Patty

My wonderful daughters!

Sarah and Cody...cheeeeze!

Micah, the one-man volleyball team

AnnDee and Lyndsie losing to Micah in volleyball! (He cheats!)

AnnDee, Justin, and Micah

Eli's Blessing

2009-07-13T08:31:00.001-07:00

Eli was blessed on July 5th. It was a wonderful day full of family, food and fun.

Eli had a big day, and besides going through every outfit he had with him, he was a very tired little boy!

Happy 4th of July!

2009-07-07T10:29:00.000-07:00

Lyndsie and Eli enjoy a snuggle. Lennis is enjoying his hammock!

Eli is getting ready to go swimming!

Eli and his mommy in the pool!

Yay for the 4th of July! Yay for little boy's first swims! Yay for Summer!

Eternally, Cody and Sarah!

2009-06-25T08:06:00.001-07:00

On Saturday, June 13, 2009, Cody and Sarah were married in the Draper Temple! They are so happy....here are some pictures.

Sarah and Cody!

AnnDee and Eli

Devon, AnnDee and Eli--what a sweet family!

Like Father, Like Son

2009-05-27T10:18:00.001-07:00

Eli looks like his Daddy!

Some Good Pics...

2009-05-27T10:07:00.000-07:00

I love these two! They are the best of buds. Is it really possible that they are this grown up?

Elijah is 1 month old!

2009-05-21T08:46:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful little family!

He looks like his Daddy!

Free Gift from Me!

2009-05-07T08:26:00.000-07:00

5 Gifts from Me (Patty)

The first 5 people to respond to this post will get something made by me, or something I earned the money to buy--my choice! This offer does have some restrictions and limitations:

1. I make no guarantees you will like what I give you! (I can only hope!)

2. What I create will be just for you.

3. It will be done some time this year, sooner rather than later.

4. You have no clue what it's going to be--it may be cards, something delicious, or a complete surprise to you (and me)! Who knows?

5. Most importantly, you must offer the same deal on your blog.

The first 5 people to comment on your blog get something from YOU! I am so excited to see what Megan will send me as I was the 4th to comment on her blog. Leave me a comment on this post, and I will get you something AWESOME!!! (It will also be something special).Part of the fun is that if you are one of the first five to comment, you get to carry on the task of making five more gifts for your friends. If you've already done this on your blog, comment anyway if you want and don't worry about making more gifts

Elijah!

2009-04-27T07:24:00.001-07:00

Look at my perfect grandson, Eli!

He looks exactly like his Daddy, with his Mommy's pretty eyes!

He is here!

2009-04-24T11:21:00.001-07:00

ELIJAH was born April 22, 7 lbs 6 oz, 19" long

Mom and baby are doing well--Dad is too!

Yahooie! I am a grandma, finally!

Ian in Porto Alegre

2009-04-03T15:41:00.001-07:00

Ian recently sent these pictures from his mission.

In Porto Alegre, Brazil

Not too sure what this is...art, I think!

Yea, a baptism!

Hmmmm, a strong wind I guess, or maybe he wants to go swimming!

Ian with his companion.

Write to Ian, he loves letters--I have his address posted on my Facebook.

-Patty

Coming Soon.....

2009-03-10T13:59:00.000-07:00

My first grandbaby is coming next month! We are all so excited for this little boy to come so we can spoil and love him! AnnDee looks wonderful, as you can see, and is probably as anxious as I am!

Yea for grandchildren! We are looking forward to April!

Basketball Days

2009-02-26T07:41:00.001-08:00

You've gotta love "rec" basketball! The season is about over and it has been fun to watch Micah and his friends play.

Austin, Micah, Dallin, and Hunter waiting for a game to start

Hunter, Micah, Austin, and Dallin

Ya gotta love Micah's face in this one! Oh, and Austin apparently loves to play peek-a-boo!

BYU...Here she comes!

2009-02-20T10:00:00.001-08:00

Great news! Lyndsie has been accepted to Brigham Young University and will begin her Freshman year this fall. She is very excited, and Mom is just glad to have her close!

CONGRATS LYNDSIE!!

Happy Birthday to Lyndsie!

2009-02-02T10:37:00.000-08:00

My sweet Little Dolly turned 18 this week! It's hard to believe that soon she will graduate from Pleasant Grove High School and on to college in the fall! I have thoroughly enjoyed each one of her 6,570 days!! Love you Lyndsie Lousie!

Christmas 2008!

2008-12-26T10:51:00.000-08:00

Every year we take a picture of the kids in front of the tree on Christmas morning. Here is the picture for 2008. We did manage to get Ian in the picture! Of course Mr. Hinks had to join in.

Cody shows off his red chili chocolate bar. Sarah (his girlfriend) is next to him.

Lyndsie and Micah contemplating life!

We had a wonderful Christmas and wish everyone an exceptional 2009!

First picture of my grandbaby!!

2008-12-01T13:57:00.001-08:00

Ok, so it's not a very good shot of the baby, but it is an adorable shot of MY baby!
You are beautiful, AnnDee!

Thanksgiving Past...

2008-11-25T14:38:00.001-08:00

I thought it would be fun to post a picture of Thanksgiving 2007.

Happy Thanksgiving 2008!

bottom front-counter clockwise: Lyndsie, Micah, Cody, AnnDee, Devon, Katy, John, Grampa Miner, Lennis, Patty, Kyoo, Ian's friend, Ian.

Vikings Rule!

2008-11-10T14:44:00.001-08:00

As I mentioned earlier, Micah's 7th Grade Viking football team won the championship! Most of the boys decided to bleach their hair.

Here is a bleach-blonde Micah with his Championship Medal!

Viking Champions!

1st row, l-r, Chase, Micah, Jared, Spencer, Jacob, Hunter
2nd row, l-r, Austin, Ricki, Dallin, Dallin, Josh, Elijah
3rd row, l-r, Nick, Marcos, Zack, Jershon, Austin, Caleb

Vikings posing for GQ!

front row, Zack, Austin

middle row, Marcos, Austin

back row, Hunter, Micah

Super Bowl Champions!

2008-11-07T15:26:00.001-08:00

Micah's football team, 7th Grade Vikings, won the Championship Game this week! We beat the Lehi Pioneers-the final score was 22-6. It was very exciting. I will post pictures of the game soon, in the meantime, enjoy these pictures of my quarterback in 4th grade football!

What amazing form!!

I Love Utah!

2008-11-03T07:20:00.001-08:00

These are pictures I took the other morning of our sunrise! I was driving and quickly snapped these from my car. We live in the most beautiful place on earth--and I feel extremely blessed!!

To Grandmother's House We Go!

2008-10-23T14:52:00.000-07:00

Last week we had the chance to travel to Wyoming and visit Gramma Jones, Uncle Marlin, Aunt Bette, and Uncle Kevin (who was visiting from Nevada). It was great fun. We love our Wyoming relatives so much and wish we got to see them more often! Thanks, Aunt Bette!

We visited the Dinosaur Tracks. Below is a very cool track. That is my camera case beside it--so you can use it as a reference on size.

We also visited Aunt Bette and Uncle Marlin's farm. Boy are we city folk. The kids had never seen a tractor this big. We took Micah's friend, Spencer, with us too!

Spencer, Lyndsie, Micah

Two mighty muscle men atop the tractor!

Ian, Micah, Lyndsie, Spencer overlooking the sugar beet field.

One of the highlights of our trips to Wyoming is to go to Cody and visit all the tourist shops. Here we are joined by a white buffalo.
Micah, Lyndsie, Mr. White Buffalo, and Spencer

We stopped at the Otto, Wyoming Cemetary and took pictures of headstones of relatives. We have a lot of relatives buried there and it was a great experience to take a moment to ponder them and our ancestory.

In Cody we stopped for lunch next to this little lake. There were cattails growing all over and the kids thought it was great fun to pick them and beat them against the table releasing all the seeds. It literally looked like it was raining cattail fuzz!

Ian, Lyndsie(hiding), Spencer, Micah

This was where we stopped for lunch. Imagine our surprise when, upon ordering, we were told "we do not have any chicken"! Really, this actually happened!

It is tradition to stop in Farson, Wyoming (the half way point on our trip) and get ice cream. I'm not sure if the kids are jumping for joy over the ice cream or to just be out of the car!

Lyndsie, Micah, Lennis, Ian

We had a wonderful time, and treasure this last family trip before Ian leaves on his mission to Porto Alegre, Brazil next week!

Just call me Grandma?!!

2008-10-22T11:15:00.000-07:00

We have the most wonderful news, ever!! Lennis and I are going to be grandparents! AnnDee and Devon have announced that they are expecting their first baby in April.

Here's the deal, I don't know what I should have the baby call me. I was thinking Granny, maybe Grammy...I don't know. What do you think? What would be the best name for my grandchild to call us? I'd love your comments!!

The Police!

2008-09-18T12:56:00.001-07:00

On Saturday, Micah and I went to the BYU-UCLA football blow-out (oops, I mean game), and met up with Devon and AnnDee. After, Micah got a tour of Devon's police cruiser!

Devon and AnnDee!

AnnDee and Patty sporting our white visors. Devon is in the background checking out his cute wife!

Labor Day Family Reunion Camping!

2008-09-03T08:00:00.001-07:00

This past Labor Day Weekend, Patty's extended family held a reunion in the beautiful mountains at Bennion Creek. We had over 60 people in attendance and food enough for 100! It was a wonderful time, even with the rain!

Eric and Patty helping with our authentic Mexican Dinner.

Tess & Lyndsie doing hair! Carrie & Eric

Lori & Brian

Uncle Ron poses for this picture while Tyler concentrates on something!

Lyndsie & Micah

Aunt Shirley and Ian

Tyler and his wonderful Mom!

Ian Comes Home!

2008-08-20T14:26:00.001-07:00

Last night, Ian returned from his Service Mission as a YPM in Nauvoo. He had an amazing time and is glad to be home!

Lyndsie gets a hug from Elder Jones!

Ok, who invited this guy? Ian was so glad to see his friend, Nils, who returned last month from a two year mission to Austraila! Welcome home, Nils!

A special hug for Grampa Miner.

Family Camping!

2008-07-20T08:11:00.001-07:00

Miner Family Camping Trip-July 2008!

Richard, CaDee and Kate

Lori, Amy, Justin (hiding), CaDee (nice tongue!), Bryan, Lyndsie, and Micah all enjoy playing Tripoly!

AnnDee, Lyndsie, and Micah pose before the start of our single track mountain bike ride led by John and Kate. It was way too fun!

How many men does it take....
Brian, Bryan, John and Grampa use their fire starting skills!

Micah shows off his perfectly cooked marshmellow

John warms.....himself.

There is nothing better than John's homemade vanilla ice cream on top of his dutch oven apple crisp! Tyler turns the ice cream maker under the supervision of Grampa Miner!

AnnDee and Uncle John!

We had the best time. John made sure we were well fed and outfitted to the max. He and Kate led us all on a grueling mountain bike ride. Thanks, Uncle John and Aunt Kate--you are the very best!!

Happy 4th of July!

2008-07-08T11:14:00.000-07:00

This 4th of July was spent enjoying neighbors, family, food, fireworks, and this wonderful country in which we live! All this courtesy of our armed forces past and present--we were able to celebrate our freedom in the way we chose. Remember to be grateful for their sacrafices which enable us to be free!

Fireworks at Pleasant Grove Junior High School. Our city puts on the best fireworks ever!

(Thanks, Lennis--your picture is the best!)

BBQ at the Howards'!

Even Hinks enjoys the BBQ, of course Lennis sneaks him food :)

Dena decided that the fire needed to be moved since smoke was blowing in our direction. Well, as you can see, what Dena wants, Dena gets!

Grampa Day!

2008-07-07T13:33:00.001-07:00

Wednesday is the day I call "Daddy Day" because my Dad (Grampa Miner) and I go to lunch every Wednesday. This week we got to have Uncle John and most of my family join us!!

Last week we got to go to lunch with Grampa and Uncle John! We love them so much!

Lennis, Micah, and Lyndsie love when Mom takes pictures...NOT!

AnnDee enjoys the "lunch of champions"!

Micah makes sure not one drop is wasted!

Cookout in the Canyon!

2008-06-30T15:01:00.000-07:00

Last week we had a bbq with our wonderful cousins, the Thorns'. We went to Whiting Campground and enjoyed a beautiful afternoon!

From right to left, Justin, Grampa Miner, AnnDee, Lyndsie (barely), Micah, CaDee, Zack, Aunt Lori, Landon, and Richard. Somehow Uncle Brian escaped from this picture!

Lyndsie, Zack, and AnnDee pose for this photo op!

Landon, Zack, and Micah were so helpful with the homemade rootbeer!

Aunt Lori, Uncle Brian, Zack, Patty, Micah, Lyndsie, and AnnDee lined up to play "Duck on the Rock". It was brutal, but the only casualty was my sandal!

...and they were my most favorite sandals!

What Canyon cookout is complete without S'mores?!

Strawberry Days!

2008-06-24T13:44:00.001-07:00

Every June, our wonderful city of Pleasant Grove, Utah, holds the Strawberry Days Celebration. Our favorite things are the Block Party, Parade, Carnival, Concert in the Park, and especially the strawberries and cream! This is one of my favorite times of the year :)

I'm proud to be an American!

Tess and Lennis waiting for the Strawberry Days Parade to start!

"Mighty Viking" football boys in the parade, Spencer, Austin and Micah.

BLOCK PARTY!

Lyndsie and Melina dance at the Block Party

I liked this wagon with the Clydesdales--and this cool stagecoach!

Hope of America, and Friends!

2008-06-16T08:12:00.001-07:00

At the end of this school year, Micah received the "Hope of America" Award presented by the Kiwani's Club in Pleasant Grove. We are so proud of him! Lyndsie and Micah pose after the awards ceremony.

Micah and Grampa Miner!

Lyndsie & Gramps

Micah and his friends, Austin, Thomas, (Micah), Daniel and Lachoneous. Isn't sixth grade wonderful?!

Friends Lachoneaous, (Micah), and Jorge :)!

MISSION CALL!

2008-06-12T06:45:00.001-07:00

Ian received his mission call. He is going to the.....

Brazil Porto Alegre South Mission

He enters the MTC in Sao Paulo, Brazil on October 29, 2008. Thanks to all who guessed! We had a few winners. Mom, Tess, Janice F., Kendra D., Jacquie C., and Spencer R.

"Guess Where Ian is Going On His Mission" Contest!

2008-06-06T13:12:00.000-07:00

IAN'S MISSION CALL WILL COME ON WEDNESDAY!!
We want everyone to guess where Ian will go on his mission. Email Patty: http://www.pattyajones@yahoo.com/ with your guess, or leave here as a comment. I will post them here, and the winner gets a fun prize! It will be fun to see where people think he will go!!

Dad:. . . . . . . . . . Sweden
Mom:. . . . . . . . . Estonia or Germany or Los Angeles CA Spanish or Brazil (yes I get lots
of guesses cause I'm the Mom!!)
AnnDee: . . . . . . Canada or California
Devon: . . . . . . . California or the East Coast
Cody:. . . . . . . . . Japan Tokyo North or Canada
Lyndsie:. . . . . . .Estonia
Micah:. . . . . . . . Austraila
Grampa. . . . . . . Italy or Germany
Uncle John. . . . .Bosnia or Peru
CaDee T. . . . . . .Zimbabwe
Aunt Shirley. . . Minnesota or Russia
Aunt Zina. . . . . .Guatemala or Hawaii
Tess F.:. . . . . . . Berlin Germany, California or Brazil
Jessica M.:. . . . .Guam or Iowa
Alex W.:. . . . . . . Jacksonville, Florida
Kendra D: . . . . .Brazil
Jacquie C: . . . . . Brazil or Poland
Melanye T: . . . .Guatamala
Tawyna H. . . . . California Spanish or Phillipines
Dave H. . . . . . . .Virginia or the West Indies
Erika H. . . . . . . Romania or Connecticut
Trent H. . . . . . .France or Louisana
Dena H. . . . . . . Austraila or New Zealand
Tyrel H. . . . . . .Thailand or Florida
Spencer R. . . . . .Mexico or Brazil
Jared I. . . . . . . . Denmark
Jacob I. . . . . . . . Africa
Courtney F. . . . Chile
Stephanie P. . . . .Phillipines
Mozart F. . . . . . .Canada, Arizona, Southern States (ok Mozart, this is cheating!)
Janice F. . . . . . . .Brazil, Germany, Japan
Pal Sandy. . . . . . Argentina or Africa
Jay F. . . . . . . . . .Canada or Guatemala

Ian in Nauvoo

2008-06-03T13:04:00.001-07:00

Ian has been in Nauvoo for 1 month. He is busy performing and working hard!

This is the Nauvoo Temple behind him. On the days he does not perform, Ian works as a cooper. Since I had no idea what that was, you might not either. He makes barrels. He says it is fun!

He sent this picture and said "This is how I feel about being in Nauvoo"!

Soccer Time!

2008-05-29T07:38:00.000-07:00

Micah completed a soccer tournament this past weekend in Kaysville. The team did a wonderful job, and we had a great time spending some of the holiday weekend at the soccer field.

At the end of each game, the team lines up on the field and then claps while jogging to the crowd. It is a great tradition and super fun for the moms lucky enough to have their sons run directly to them for a big hug (like me). I hope this tradition continues for years to come!Micah and teammates listening to the coach at the end of the game. It has been a great season!!

Gainesville, Florida!

2008-05-20T07:35:00.000-07:00

Last week I had the great opportunity to visit the University of Florida where a few of my coworkers and I toured the Museums. Oh, and we got to have a private tour of "The Swamp", the football stadium for the Gators. We did not have time to fit in a visit with Urban Meyer however, so sad!

As the football players exit the locker room and get ready to run onto the field, they all touch this gator for good luck!

We also met a group of the Red Hat Ladies. They were having a great time. This is a group who meet together and go on social outings. They all were purple and a red had except on their birth month. Then they wear red with a purple hat!

We had a wonderful time touring the Butterfly Rainforest located at the Florida Museum of Natural History on the campus of University of Florida. I took this picture of one of the inhabitants. It was so amazing!

This little friend wanted to come home with me! This was such a great experience and so beneficial for me with my work at the Bean Life Science Museum.

Congrats Devon!!

2008-05-05T11:45:00.000-07:00

Devon graduated from the Police Academy this week! He worked so hard and was even chosen by his classmates to give the graduating address. He started his new job today with the Provo Police Department. WAY TO GO DEV!

Great News!!

2008-04-30T07:39:00.000-07:00

Lyndsie has been called to serve on the Seminary Council for Pleasant Grove High School for the 2008-2009 school year! We are so proud of her and the great choices she makes. She continues to be so much fun and exciting as she sings around the house and spoils Micah rotten! Way to go Lyndsie, we love you tons!!!

Chick Magnet!

2008-04-23T07:35:00.000-07:00

Ian currently shot this commercial...enjoy! He said he had to bite into several sandwiches before the end of the shoot. Boy, it's a tough life!

By the way, he leaves for Nauvoo on May 2nd. He is way excited to go--I am too but he will be missed terribly. He will turn in his mission papers before he leaves for Nauvoo, so he should have a mission call sometime in May!

30th Birthday Celebration for Patty's work!

2008-03-20T10:58:00.000-07:00

This is the Bean Life Science Museum on the campus of BYU. Patty works here and has been busy helping plan the 30th Anniversary Celebration which takes place next week, March 24-29. There are free activities held all week long--a great activity for families and friends. Click on the link to see the Museum website with details of the celebration!!

Basketball Champs!!

2008-03-04T13:58:00.000-08:00

Micah played 6th grade Junior Jazz basketball this year. They had the best coach ever, Neal Watters! They went undefeated this year. They had to win the semi-final game in double overtime--it was a tough game. They won the final game by two points! It was a great season, even though Micah broke his foot half way through the season, while rebounding. The foot healed very fast, and Micah was able to play in the semi-final and final games!! Congrats boys!

Pleasant Grove 6th Grade Basketball Champions!
Grampa and Patty enjoy a moment after the game. Notice the lovely trophy!
Friends Chandler and Lee with Micah (center) after receiving their trophies.

Lyndsie & Micah's Shoot!

2008-02-27T12:56:00.000-08:00

Lyndsie and Micah shot some print work for Neways to be used in their up-coming catalog. It was so fun to have them work together.

Micah poses with a carrot in his mouth-how flattering!

Lyndsie's Shoot!

2008-02-12T08:38:00.000-08:00

Lyndsie had the opportunity to shoot a commercial for Zion's Bank. In fact, the commercial will start running any day now. She plays a long-boarding girl who buys a new long-board with her Dad's Zion's Visa card. It was a fun shoot!

Nauvoo!

2008-01-08T14:17:00.000-08:00

This is Nauvoo, Illinois. This is where Ian will get to spend the summer! He auditioned for and was chosen as a Young Performing Missionary (YPM) for the LDS Church. He, along with 19 other guys & gals will learn and perform several programs for the entertainment of the tourists who visit. They sing, dance, act, and play instruments. They have big productions, street productions, and even a program by the river. It will be quite the experience for him. They will perform about 3-5 times a day..enough to keep them very busy. He is very excited to go!

Since Ian will be in Nauvoo this summer, we are planning a family trip to visit Nauvoo and the temple (picture above). We want to see the YPM's in action! Also, we have forebearers who helped settle and lived in Nauvoo. We hope to see where they lived.

Christmas 2007!

2008-01-01T12:57:00.000-08:00

Ian shows great form while sledding on Christmas Day!

AnnDee and Micah showing off their sledding smiles!

Micah and Devon getting ready to biff it good.

Hinks playing in the snow.

Tally having a Christmas afternoon snooze.

Blue the Christmas Doggie!

AnnDee and Micah play Dance, Dance Revolution...watch out "Dancing with the Stars"!

The family poses (minus Devon-who is taking the picture) on Christmas morning.

It is tradition to take a picture in front of the tree on Christmas morning before opening presents. Not sure what Ian is thinking...good posture maybe?!

Photo Shoot in West Yellowstone

2007-12-11T15:03:00.000-08:00

Micah had the opportunity to do a photo shoot in West Yellowstone this last weekend for Ski Doo. It was super fun. There was a ton of snow and it was very cold! Dad took this picture of Mom and Micah at Yellowstone National Park Entrance.

We stopped in Idaho Falls to see the temple.

This is where Lennis & I were married!

It was soooo cold! Micah had been outside shooting and ran inside the lodge

to get warm by the fire.

The "Cool-Dude" look!

Thanksgiving!

2007-11-26T08:10:00.001-08:00

Thanksgiving Day 2007! From bottom left (next to the 7-Up), Lyndsie, Micah, Cody, AnnDee, Devon, Kate, John, Grampa, Lennis, Patty, Ian's Roommate, Ian's friend, Ian.

At this wonderful time of year, we are so thankful for family and friends! God bless you all!

The Holy War!

2007-11-20T14:33:00.000-08:00

So, this Saturday is what is known as the "Holy War". BYU and the University of Utah will face off in the famous yearly football contest. We are BYU fans! We will be attending the game, dressed in blue, cheering on our beloved Cougars! Go Cougs!
P.S. Johnny Harline is STILL open!!

Football Champs!

2007-10-30T13:55:00.001-07:00

Micah's 6th Grade Football Team won their playoff game this week. They beat Lone Peak, a team they had previously never defeated. The final score was 12-7. They played with so much heart, it was great to see them win.

This Saturday, Nov 3rd at 1:00pm they play for the championship, in a game called The Super Bowl. The game will be at Lehi High School. The kids worked so hard this year, and have had a very successful season. It has been so fun to watch them progress and really gel as a team. Look out, these kids are for real!

Spencer (#2) and Micah (#13)

Coaches Ryan, Cory & Joe

Micah and Spencer

Micah turns 12!

2007-10-22T15:38:00.000-07:00

Micah had a birthday! He turned 12 years old, quite the young man now. He chose to go with his friend, Spencer Romney, to Boondock's for his birthday. Micah was ordained a deacon on October 14th and passed the sacrament for the first time yesterday, Oct 21st!
Happy Birthday, Micah!

Birthday Celebration!

2007-10-09T11:53:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we celebrated three family birthdays by going to dinner! Cody turned 22 on Sept 24th, Micah turned 12 on Oct 5th, and Patty turns old on Oct 10th. We had such a fun time.

Micah enjoys eating ribs, and Patty and Grampa Miner pose for a sweet picture.

Lyndsie and Cody had fun, but they ordered the same meal, and then neither one of them ate it all....hum

Devon and AnnDee enjoy their close-up. The whole gang poses, except Ian, who is too busy eating!

PGHS Homecoming 2007

2007-10-05T07:40:00.000-07:00

Recently, PGHS held their Homecoming Dance. Lyndsie went with a group of friends. She had a great time. They all went to Kid's Universe (a gymnastics gym) for their day date, and played on all the equipment, mats, and foam pits. They even set up an obstacle course and had a contest. They enjoyed dinner, the dance, and a silly video made by the boys. Yea for high school!

Ian Bikes Through Canada with John & Kate

2007-10-01T15:51:00.001-07:00

For most of the month of August, Ian had the opportunity to bicycle through Canada
with John & Kate. They peddled about 750 miles. It was quite the experience!

Lennis & Patty Jones Family Blog

2007-10-01T15:38:00.000-07:00

Welcome to our attempt to keep up with the 21st century! I will be posting periodically, so check back to see what's new with the Jones Family!
--Patty