Life in Red Rock Country: Another graduate in the family

Friday, May 28, 2021

Another graduate in the family

Kirsten, oldest of Michael and Jessica’s four kids, is – as of Thursday, May 27, 2021 – a graduate of American Leadership Academy, a charter high school in Spanish Fork, UT! There was a question as to whether she would "walk" to receive her diploma, but in the end, Kirsten put in the hard work necessary to make it happen … and we know the world is waiting for what this beautiful young woman has to offer. Can’t wait to see where life takes her!

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Counting Our Blessings

Zion Selwin Lovell is born (May 29, 2021)
Kaytee FINALLY gets her temple
Kris moves to Ohio
David and Jan'L move home to SG
Surviving the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020
Ayah Fay Lovell born healthy and adorable on Monday, December 23, 2019
Taisley earns a scholarship to DSU
My cousin Ken Wheeler passes away in Longview, WA (September 2, 2019)
Selwin Lovell becomes a US citizen (Sept. 25, 2019)
Danielle marries Kale (Aug. 31, 2019)
Simeon Lovell becomes a US citizen (Aug. 26, 2019)
Todd and Naoko welcome Tyler Robert (July 22, 2019)
Rick is named Gunlock Fire Chief
Kendi Hansen and Taylor Dunkley are married (May 18, 2019)
Selwin graduates magna cum laude with his Bachelors degree
Skylar is baptized by G-Pa Sappington
Kyle is called to be Deacons Quorum president
Cruz Joaquin Gonzales is born to Tylre and Jae on Oct. 4, 2018
Rick retires from the SGFD
Selwin receives his Associate's Degree from DSU
Robert Nelson, Superintendent of the Fresno School District and Tiffany's husband, is now Dr. Bob.
Kyle achieved a 4.0 GPA at Prairie Middle School and made the Principal’s High Honor Role!!!
Nash Michael Beaumont was born on December 21, 2017, a beautiful, healthy baby boy.
Simeon and Selwin both make the President's list at their respective schools
Kole earns his Eagle Scout award (Nov. 2017)
Kris survives "California's costliest fire" in Sonoma, CA (October, 2017)
Simeon and Steph are married (August 5, 2017)
Michael and Jessica are married (August 1, 2017)
Kaler is a high school graduate
Taisley is picked for DHS Cheer Squad on her first try
Our house is paid-in-full!!!
Selwin and Brianna are married (Nov. 26, 2016)
Simeon graduates from SWHS with 20 A's and 2 B's and is asked to be the commencement speaker!
After 20+ years, Kris gets help!!!
Kaler is an Eagle Scout
Rick is now officially Taisley's dad!!!
Kaler named to the National Honor Society
Thoryn is born healthy on October 21, 2014
Kendi graduates from DHS
Kendi is recognized by Harmon's as "one of the reasons for our success!"
Baby "G" - Guillermo Adam Gonzales - is born healthy and happy.
Bentley Jay Beaumont is born healthy and beautiful
Whitney graduates from the "U" (but we won't hold it against her . . . go, Cougars)
Kyle survives this year's annual Jones family trip to Lake Powell (ask Jan'L about that "blessing")
Whitney makes the Dean's List (again)!
Zachary is baptized
Jan'L and Kyle survive accident which totaled their car
Kelly graduates from college

Funny, Interesting, Strange Things People Say

August 15, 2021 - Art Porter, Jr. when writing the history of his father and the company he created responding to my question as to what I could possibly have to contribute, said, "You were a legend among us brothers. Running the front office, writing the orders, and shipping them." May 29, 2021 - Michael wants to videotape his Dad and me telling our stories. I mentioned by the time he was done with his Dad's stories, I might be gone. He responded,"You're not going anywhere. I'm not done with you yet!"

Mother's Day, May 9, 2021 - From David and Kaytee: You are such an inspiration, from your career goals and aspirations to your selfless volunteer work, you have been an amazing role model throughout our lives. Thank you for all you are and for being a shining example of motherhood!

April 2, 2021 - a message from Jim Coleman: Just wanted you to know how wonderful the message of the invitation, you created, is. Your typically marvelous style and spirit are beautifully manifest and extended. Thanks dear friend. You are doing a fabulous work as DG this year.

June 27, 2020 - I left last night feeling real pride in being a Rotarian and what Rotary means. I was also awed by how you stepped up and into the role of District Governor last night. You are going to have a great year! (Art Haines)

January 3, 2020 - A message from my cousin Don Wheeler said, "Linda, I'm impressed ... with my longtime membership in Lions I know the responsibility and honor which comes with the District Governor's job. Congrats."

November 15, 2019 - Kaytee reports, "Just had a conversation with our oldest (Adyn) who is mad we won’t get her a phone. In protest, she said, 'well dad! How old were you when you got your first phone?” He said, 'Gosh, I don’t know....25!?'" It's unquestionably a generational thing!

November 13, 2019 - After telling my kids my mother had reported to family members I was writing a sexy novel which was certain to be a best seller, Kaytee texted, "Ahahahahahah, Mom!!!! You dirty little author you!! I don’t know if I want to read your story though! I don’t want to think of my mom and sex in the same thought!"

September 15, 2019 - Kendi texted me this evening, "I'm making breakfast for dinner like we used to when we were little. It made me think of you and Grandpa and all you have done for us! I'm forever grateful! Love you so much."

August 2019 - A thank you note from Kendi and Taylor: Taylor and I just wanted to tell you how grateful we are for you. Thank you for everything. Thank for never giving up on us and always being supportive. Thank you for the beautiful blog post and capturing anything and everything. All of these thank you and yet none of them will be enough. We love you both so much!

June 2019 - We spent the entire month of June traveling in Europe during which time my Rotary club president texted, "what's the best way to reach you?" and emails from my bishop started, "I know you're on vacation, but ..." I guess it's nice to be needed.

May 5, 2019 - It was Fast Sunday. Simeon and Steph were in town and at church with us. Simeon went to the stand to bear his testimony, thanking ward members for their support and affection since they moved to SG from Guyana and ending, with "and, you (pointing to me) will always be my mom." I teared up ... along with some of the other sisters in the congregation.

April 28, 2019 - We were taking tickets at Tuacahn. A lady, passing through my line, stopped ... looked at me for a split second, then said, "Sappington, right?" I responded in the affirmative, then she said, "you are one of my favorite people in St. George." I have no idea who she was but apparently I have met her before.

April 15, 2019 - Our Bishop Mike Bair was released on Sunday and in preparation, I went back through my ward blog and created a simple history for him, including the annual ward histories sent to Church headquarters every year since 2014, a list of all those funerals over which he presided and missionaries who had served during his five years and 53 days as our ecclesiastical leader. His response by text: "Sister Sappington, words can't describe the gift I received tonight. Simply WOW!!! Thank you so much from the bottom of my heart for your thoughts and service. What a wonderful 5 years."

February 15, 2019 - Michael, in his feverish search for family, found an obituary for Ed's dad, Philip Scott Sappington, written about 8 months after his death. It showed he had died of leukemia, which some of us disputed, knowing full well, he had died of uremia. Michael wrote for a death certificate which, in fact, showed the cause of death as uremia (kidney failure) and when Michael reported it to all of us on Facebook, he noted, "I did not doubt my mother knew it" (Alma 56:48).

December 15, 2018 - One of my favorite AmeriCorps*VISTA members was Xochitl Cuara, who I recruited out of a Mexican restaurant here in town. She is smart, beautiful and hard-working and deserving of all the good things coming her way. I ran into her tonight at Walmart where, in a quick conversation, she told me she has applied for a new job with the State of Utah. She also introduced me to her beautiful teenage daughter, saying, "this is the woman who changed our lives forever." Isn't it one of the most important reasons we are here on earth ... to change lives and to make the world a better place? I am so grateful for this young woman in my life, even if it's just on a Walmart aisle.

July 11 - We toured the Old Montana State Prison with Adyn, Skylar and Thoryn on our way to Columbia Falls. After the tour, 10-year-old Adyn declared, "Grandma, I am going to be good for the rest of my life." No doubt, she was scared straight!

June 13, 2018 - I just wanted to send you a quick note to congratulate you on your upcoming role as District Governor!! I’m sure it is a huge sacrifice, but I also know that you’ve got a whole fan club of supporters— and we’ll be here to help you succeed. You have such an infectious enthusiasm for Rotary and service…we NEED ya! All the best, Miriam

April 21, 2018 - Today at Church, Lynda Hallman walked over to me and handed me a handwritten note which read: Yesterday I was thinking about you. I think you are AMAZING! I appreciate all the efforts you do keeping us all informed and on the same page (I know this doesn't happen by magic). Anyway, I just wanted you to know I notice what you do!

January 23, 2018 - Went to a movie tonight with a nearly sold out audience. A young woman on our row kept coming and going in front of us, so I (jokingly) suggested she should bring some popcorn on her way back, then went back to watching the movie. 5 minutes later she showed back up ... with popcorn. Everyone around us got a good laugh, but it was very nice of her.

November 13, 2017 - The other day I received a phone call from Sam Draper, PI guy for the new Dixie Technical College here in St. George wanting me to take an assignment to help them spread their media message. When I asked him how he had decided on me since I'm not on anyone's radar anymore. His answer? "We had a few people in mind and considered them all, but you were the only one about whom no one had anything negative to say." Hmmmm, I think that was a compliment ... but I could be wrong.

November 12, 2017 - An email response from Brother Jesse Jarvis in my ward after sending him the Sacrament meeting notes: What a true miracle you are, Sister Sappington! Goodness, you are phenomenal, a true thoroughly engaged Saint of the Highest Order, of the "Celestial Law!" Thank you. You light up every service you give and place you're in. You exemplify Alma 7:24 and Ether 12:4, for as I ponder "good works," you come to mind.

September 19, 2017- From my second son Michael who just remarried and gained three pre-teens: For all the times I came home and asked what you had cooked for dinner, then complained and threw a fit! For all the times I whined because I didn't have any clean clothes for school! For all the times you stayed up after we all went to bed to clean and do the dishes! For all the times I never thanked you for all you did for me I SINCERELY APOLOGIZE!!!"

July 2, 2017 - From Rotary District 5420's Chief-of-Staff Devin Thorpe, "Great work, Linda! You've done a great job on multiple fronts over the past year."

June 26, 2017 - My friend Rhett Long, former publisher of the Spectrum newspaper here in SG, has been pulled out of his self-imposed retirement to take over the publisher position at the Provo Herald. I served (I was nicknamed "Fluffy" because I preferred to write happy stories) on the Spectrum's editorial board for a couple of years ... we met on Tuesday afternoon. Yesterday, on his last Sunday in the Bloomington 7th Ward, he asked if I would consider driving to Provo every Wednesday for their edit board.

April 2, 2017 - From Sister Freeman: Congratulations to Simeon and Stephanie. What fun. Mt. Timpanogos is such a lovely temple. 10 years ago who would have imagined what wonderful things have come to their lives. You have opened amazing doors to these twins. Happy story.

February 6, 2017 - I had a meeting at DSU with Karyn Wright and a faculty member - Sylvia Bradshaw - who remembered me from when I worked for the American Cancer Society and wrote an article about her as our honorary chair of our Daffodil Days fundraiser. She told me how much that article had meant to her as a 13-year-old survivor of retinal-blastoma which took her eye and how it made her see,"I was somebody!" It really touched me!

February 6, 2017 - Linda, I know the district newsletter is a lot of work, but thank you. When the St. George Rotary Club ALLOWED you to join, little would they know the difference you would make. I think a few are looking down saying "this legacy began with us and we are pleased with what we see." Thank you is not enough for what you do. shaun dg

July 3, 2016 - Thanks, Linda, for the wonderful job you do in composing the ward newsletter, the blog, the history, the sacrament meeting notes, etc. etc. etc. We are so blessed to have you in this ward! Your lesson last week was so good!! THANKS!!! Hugs, Elaine

May 24, 2016 - Stacy sent this report from the hospital where she works in the Cardiovascular Unit (CVU): A lady came into administration today would not give me her name. She was most recently in the hospital because her husband was receiving care. He spent time in the ICU and on CVU. She mentioned Stacy Welch is an 'outstanding lady' who showed so much empathy. Please recognize Stacy for her great work and care. This patient is not easy to deal with and had a problem with almost everyone except Stacy."

April 3, 2016 - At our recent WIM Reunion, we were introduced to some of the couple's with whom we DID NOT serve. On hearing our name, one sister said loudly, "oh, my ... its the legendary Elder and Sister Sappington!" Not sure what she meant, but it felt a little like being at my own funeral. Too funny!

March 5, 2016 - Danielle took care of Penny when we went to SLC recently. 92-year-old Grandma Doris liked her enough to offer, "when I get well and can go home, I'm going to take you out and teach you how to line dance!"

February 6, 2016 - Today was very strange ... I took down the Christmas tree and harvested broccoli from my backyard garden both on the same day.

January 25 - I shared my story of how the twins came to live with us in a letter to Selwin and Simeon. Simeon’s response: this is the first time I have heard this story and you are right! I should tell you though you have wonderful motherly instincts (even when it comes to cats) and I love you for that. I should also tell you the first Sunday we walked into the ward (you were in California) – and, I am not kidding you - everyone turned and looked at us. I whispered to Sel, “hey bro, I don't know if we are in the right place,” to which of course Sel (being Sel) said to shut it. Hey, I love the members of the Bloomington 7^th Ward and would not have it any other way and I love you guys for even considering to let us stay with you. I know it required a lot of change, especially for Brother Ed but we are still grateful for all you do for us and you need to know (now no crying, Mom) and let's be honest, you did not answer an email from us, you answered a call from God to help your two sons.

January 15 - Once again, I was trying to have a conversation with my husband. When I had to repeat myself at least twice, I asked if he ever heard my voice. His response, “Of course, I hear you talking. I just don’t pay any attention to what you’re saying!”

January 10 - In a AA recovery training meeting, the facilitator listed all the “roles” family members play in the alcoholics life, including “hero,” “lost child,” “enabler,” and others. When the class was over, I approached the trainer asking him if it was normal to see myself a little in each of these roles to which he responded, “it makes you one of the most normal people you know!”

January 8, 2016 - In a family discussion of how Dad is the "hero" and Mom is the "spawn of the devil," Stacy said, "I used to think so, too, but then, as an adult, I lived with my parents for a couple of years and I saw what Mom sees and deals with. My Dad can be a real butthead. Sorry, Dad, I love you and don’t mean to throw you under the bus, but you really can be a handful, so I've changed my opinion of my mother!”

September 28 - Our President Benn wrote from Guyana: "Sister Sappington, I always tell the missionaries and couples that few people in my life made me want to go to higher heights and excel. You are one of them. You have the power to motivate even the ones who thought they could not be motivated. Respect due."

July 16 - We chatted with EJ. Asked her how she was doing with the 50/50 arrangement between her Mom and Dad and if she had adjusted to the divorce. Her poignant response? "Grandma, kids never get over a divorce!"

June 26 - We attended one of 5 Rotary installation dinners tonight, where we were introduced as "Linda Sappington, our AG and her wife Ed." I'm not sure Ed thought it was funny, but everyone else sure did.

June 21 - Ed and I were scheduled to speak at the Beehive Homes today. When the meeting was over, the man who was conducting approached me. "Aren't you somebody famous?" he asked, to which I laughed and said, "might have been once, but not anymore." "Well, how do I know your name? Do you sell real estate? Are you on the city council?" I told him my only claim-to-fame was as the Volunteer Center director. "That's it ... I was certain I knew you from somewhere. Wow, we are so very sorry about what has happened to the VC. There were so many wonderful things happening when you were there! Now its pretty much gone." Let it go, Linda ... let it go!!!

June 16, 2015 - Today Donald Trump declared his candidacy as the 12th Republican candidate for POTUS. When Michael heard that, he immediately threw his hat in the ring, too (on Facebook). At the Spectrum editorial board meeting, I told everyone my son had put his name in, to which Jud said ... well, you know your son would have to be at least 35 to run for president. I assured him Michael was age-qualified, to which he said, "you have a son who is 35?" I laughed and said, "yes, and he's my 5th child!" His response, "No way. I don't believe you!"

May 28, 2015 - (From Josh to Kaytee on their anniversary) Eleven years ago today I married my best friend, my rock, my salvation. I always tell young men looking for love to choose carefully because women will make or break you. Kaytee has definitely made me a better man, and is the solid foundation our family is built on. She was raised in St. George her entire live, when her crazy husband said get up and move to Montana and I’m going to change careers and start at the bottom with two kids and no money. So she, with a half-hearted smile and fear in her eyes said, “ok” leaving behind her friends and family and everything she knows, and made it work. She cut coupons, cut back and did without. In the process she made new friends and kept in touch with old ones while making a new life in Montana. Not many women can do that. She also helped me at work. With every promotion I made she was behind me all the way. It’s funny, I spend my life looking up to strong men trying to be like them in every way and still Kaytee is the strongest person I know. Happy anniversary, baby, and thanks for taking this crazy ride with me.

May 10, 2015 - On Mothers’ Day, Stacy wrote: Love you mom...thank you for all the amazing things you do for our family. You are such a great example to me...I am in awe by you in so many ways I cannot name them all!! I hope you have a beautiful day!!!

On Mothers’ Day, Kelly wrote: Happy Mother's Day to this amazing woman! Linda Sappington is the best mom six kids could ask for. She made me who I am and I love her for everything she has done for, and taught me. She has always encouraged me and never let me forget who I am. I love you, Mom.

On Mothers’ Day, Michael wrote: Happy Mother's Day to the best mother in the world, Linda Sappington who gave me drive and ambition and taught me the meaning of never giving up. She taught me how if you work hard enough you can achieve anything. I owe most of what I am today to her. She is a great mother!

April 7, 2015 - I attended the WC Commission meeting today during which Lillian Zielke, a wonderful volunteer with whom I worked as Director of the Volunteer Center, was honored as April Volunteer of the Month. When she saw me, she ran across the room, hugged me and said, "the boss is here! I absolutely loved working with you." She then introduced me to Bonnie Hallman who now oversees the RSVP program. Bonnie said, upon meeting me, "oh, my goodness ... you are a legend. And, thank you so much for creating such a strong foundation for this program. It has been a pleasure to follow in your footsteps!"

March 10, 2015 - from Ted Dodge, a member of my Rotary club: Linda, you are amazing. Have never met anyone so tenacious in seeing a project to completion. We are so privileged to have you in our Rotary Club.

January 24, 2015 - Kris texted: I have the best mom! It always shocks me when I hear coworkers or friends say they have nowhere to turn for help and then I remind myself how fortunate I am. I'm blessed to be part of such a wonderful family.

January 9, 2015 - While loading G-ma Doris into a van for the ride to St. George, one of the Brookdale staff people helping us, said to me as she left us to our task, “I feel for you!”

December 18, 2014 - Not sure why but I was asked by Shar Heitkotter's family to help with planning her funeral. Ed questioned why I was involved. I told him I didn't solicit the assignment or campaign for it. Ed said, "its amazing ... do you have any idea how big your circle is?"

November 8 - Kelly checked in to see how her Dad was two days after his knee replacement surgery. "So glad to see he's up on his feet. Tell him I'm bringing my clubs when we come for Thanksgiving." I responded, "well, he's not going to be able to golf until New Years," to which she said, "well, someone has to drive the cart!" Funny girl!

October 17 - One of my best volunteers over the years was driving the bus for the St. George Art Museum's Home Tour this morning. When I stepped on the bus, I gushed at seeing him. His response, "I have NOTHING good to say about your replacement (at the Volunteer Center)." Wow, guess that says it all.

October 15 - We went to Ed's pre-surgery meeting this morning and when the nurse walked out, he turned to me and said, "I wish this was happening to you instead of me!"

October 6, 2014 - My mother was "off the charts" angry when we were in California for her birthday and to move her from Crown Point around the corner to Emeritus at Corona. Fast forward 30 days. When I called today to check on her, Jennifer at Emeritus at Corona told me, "we just love her. She's gentle as a kitten and sweet as sugar candy." What? Who are they talking about?

September 20 - My mother's birthday, so we went to Corona. It was ugly, until Ed reminded me of the final words my Father spoke to me, "Thanks for trying to get along with her." I'm not sure if my Dad meant that day or for my whole life, but his simple expression of gratitude has sustained me during those difficult times with my Mother since his death on June 17, 2008.

August 9 - Erin from the back seat on our way to the Las Vegas airport after her week-long visit in St. George: "I wish I was coming ... instead of going!"

August 6 - Erin and Taisley were chatting with me, when Taisley said, "Grandma, you should have been a teacher because you are always teaching us something!"

August 5 - Taisley to Erin at Cuz'N Camp, "Grandma is more than my grandma ... she's my 2nd mother."

June 16 - Kaytee called today to tell us Josh had received a huge raise. "You've heard the statement: God moves in mysterious ways? Well, at our house, God moves in obvious ways."

June 8 - At the end of our trip to Denver for Kyle's baptism, a teary-eyed Kaler begged, "Just one more day." Kole, who had me in a big, bear hug said, "I won't let you go," and David, as he hugged me goodbye said, "you don't visit us often enough."

May 13 - Kelly Skyped me tonight and started the conversation with “you have absolutely ruined my life!” I couldn’t imagine what I had done to evoke such an accusation. Turns out, she recently decided to watch “Downton Abbey” and now just wants to sit in front of the TV. I laughed because I have suggested this PBS series numerous times but her response – like Stacy before her – has always been, “Oh, Mom. That’s just not our kind of TV show!” Ha, ha … the joke’s on her!

May 11 - On the day after Mothers' Day, Simeon wrote: You are the best mother a guy could ask for and I thank you for being there for me and trusting me, for helping me to get out on my mission and for the love you showed me all the day long. I missed the day but you deserve to be thanked everyday, including on Mothers Day ... from your missionary way out here!

May 6 - Stacy texted to say Danielle had moved back home. "She had to swallow her pride to come home because she couldn't find anything in her price range." I reminded her not to say "I told you so" but to put her arms around her and let her know she can always come home. Stacy wrote back, "I did ... just like my mom did!" What a lovely paycheck!

April 12 - Kaytee wanted to Skype today. When I called, she pulled Skylar onto her lap and said, "tell Grandma!" I knew my youngest daughter had big news by the way she was acting but Skylar wasn't cooperating. Kaytee whispered in her ear, encouraging her to make an announcement of some kind. However, Skylar's announcement was not what her mother wanted her to say. Instead of saying "I'm going to be a big sister," our 3-year-old said, "Grandma, I want to come to your house."

April 1 - This sweet message came from Kenrick and Rose Benn with whom we served in Guyana: "I know the time is just around the corner when 'our' two sons will be out in the mission field. There are not enough words to describe the type of persons you and your husband and your entire family are or for what you did and are doing for those two boys. There are not many in this world who would have done same. I believe those two can convert even the hardest heart. Sister Benn and I would like to thank you two wonderful people for all you have done for us and for two young men I love as a father for his sons."

March 31 - Kelly texted me today asking, "are you coming up this weekend?" I responded I would call her to be sure our plans would work with her plans. She texted back, "I have no plans. My mom is coming for a visit!" Gotta love that girl!

March 29, 2014 - My brother Larry was here for a visit so we had lots of time to chat. In one conversation he said, "thanks so much for your family. I sure love all your kids!" I think they're all pretty special, but its always nice to hear it from someone else.

March 12, 2014 - We dropped Simeon off at the MTC today and on the way home got a call from Kaytee who hesitatingly said, "Can I ask you a question? Did you and Dad adopt the boys?" Only in my heart!

February 4, 2014 - A kind note from a prospective caregiver I didn't hire because she is too skilled in other ways ... "I just wanted to say 'thank you' for taking the time to meet with me yesterday. It was more than a pleasure to visit with you. Your goodness extends beyond you in so many ways ...”

January 31 - I had reason to stop by the Chamber of Commerce office today where I ran into an old friend of mine from Rotary. We had the usual chit chat where he asked how Ed was doing and how old he was. I told him my husband is 72 to which he replied, "how is that possible when you're only 45?" Ha, ha ... I wish!

January 27 - Today at Rotary, the gal sitting next to me mentioned it was her 43rd wedding anniversary and asked me how long I had been married. I told her we had just celebrated our 50th. The guy on the other side of me said, "Holy cow ... really? How old were you when you got married? Ten?" I could have kissed him!!!

January 5 - Today at church we sat a row ahead of a young family. During the meeting the Daddy - in an effort to keep his 2 1/2-year-old quiet - got out his iPad and began showing her family pictures. "Who's this?" he whispered. "Daddy" she answered. "Who's this?" he asked again. She responded, "Katie (her aunt)" Who's this," he asked one more time. "Mommy ... oh, Mommy's naked," she said loud enough for at least a few of us to hear! Talk about breaking up the meeting!!!

October 27 - We attended my mother's ward in Corona, CA for just the 2nd time ever. A woman approached me in Relief Society and introduced herself. When I told her who I was she said, "oh, of course ... I remember you ... but you have certainly updated yourself. You look soooooo much better than the last time you were here!" Huh? Was that a compliment?

May 26 - After arriving in Guatemala with my Rotary club, there was some discussion about what the itinerary would include. When told there would be some activities for those who were not members of my club, Ed said, "so the spouses will have something to do while we are building stoves?" to which everyone laughed and someone said, "Ed, you're the spouse!!!"

May 13 - My mother's visiting teacher went to see her in the hospital where she is recuperating from a broken hip - and not happy about it. Janene writes about the visit, "we saw Doris yesterday afternoon. She was grumpy... I told her if there were 8 dwarfs for Snow White, she'd be Bitchy!"

May 4, 2013 - Kelly and Gary have an amazing parrot. Through their patience and persistent, he has learned two songs - "You Are My Sunshine" and "How Much is That Doggie in the Window?" and sings them regularly. Problem is, both songs have the same two words in their lyrics, so Dillon gets hilariously confused when he sings, "you'll never know, dear, how much . . . is that doggie in the window?"

April 13, 2013 - While talking with Asha Mohanlall in Berbice, Guyana she noted how much she enjoyed seeing all the mission reunion pictures, but wondered, "where was Sister Sappington?" Karen Harris, who was visiting us at the time said, "she was there. She's at the end of the line in the back and in another picture is the one in the middle." Asha responded, "oh, yes . . . now I see her. But, you know how it is . . . you get a bunch of white people together and they all look alike!!!" We roared with laughter.

April 3 - Bentley Jay Beaumont was born yesterday and in a visit with Allysa at the hospital she mentioned she was going to have to go back to work in six weeks. On the way home, Ed opined how difficult it was going to be for her to try to work with two small children. I noted I went back to work fulltime with 5 children . . . to which he responded "but you didn't work when our kids were little and when you did work, it was always at home!" Huh????

March 22, 2013 - In a phone call to The Doris, she said, "I have instructed Larry to give you some money when I die."

January 19, 2013 - Kaytee sent an e-mail stating, "I got the package today! Adyn says 'OH, thank you gramma!!!!!' and I'm saying 'Oh, thank you, Mommy!!!' for the inserts! I'm hoping a really good sale comes where I can use some of these I don't normally get! Also, thanks again for the jacket! I went to the gym this morning not expecting it to be that cold since it's been a bit warmer the last few days. Walked outside to almost zero temps and was warm warm warm! That's a good feeling!!! Love you! KT"

January 16, 2013 - Kate Barclay, a member of my current basic Microsoft class sent an e-mail this morning saying, "So appreciate you sharing your knowledge with us! This is just so fun and enlightening to learn what this program will do! I had no idea!"

January 4, 2013 - My cousin Bruce Mock recently lost Georgia, his wife of 58 years, and in his grieving he expressed his appreciation to Stacy for her time and attention while they were at the hospital, noting, "she is such a beautiful young woman . . . and so much like you - loving, caring and giving!" I am so proud of my daughter. She truly is all of those things!

December 26, 2012 - When I went in for eye surgery this morning, Elaine - a senior volunteer from my past life - was on duty. She asked me if I was going to go back to the Volunteer Center. I told her "no . . . that ship has sailed." She said many of the volunteers had hoped I would return "because we loved you and all thought you did such a wonderful job and made us feel valuable to the community!"

December 25, 2012 - Michael e-mailed on Christmas Day: "Thanks for the presents. I am deeply impressed and grateful. Tara loved her books as well as all the other gifts you gave Lilly. I was blown away by my gift. I don't know if I can express my appreciation enough. I have wanted those gears for a long time and never had the money to buy them, so thank you very much."

December 21, 2012 - We ran into Mans Jennings at the hospital today while visiting my cousin Georgia Mock. After a few minutes of chit chat, we started to leave but he grabbed my arm and said, “I should have told you this before but I appreciate you so much for everything you have done for this community. I’ve never worked directly with you, but I have watched and admired you for years.”

December 11, 2012 - We went to see “Skyfall” last night. The theater has a new system where you can pick your seat which is wonderful when you are seeing an eagerly anticipated movie during its first week of release, but this was a Tuesday and the show has been out for several weeks. When we bought our tickets, the girl placed us on Row D – but there were only about 4 other people in the theater when the movie started so we decided to move further back. About 5 minutes into the movie, another couple arrived – and wouldn’t you know it – we were in their seats. I suggested they might want to sit in the row ahead of us – or the row behind us – or even next to us . . . but "No! You are in our seats and we paid for these seats so would you please move." No Christmas spirit here! It was hysterical!

November 10, 2012 - David called today with a smile in his voice. He reminded me how much he had hated my "20-item pickups" when all the kids were still at home (each had to pick up and put away 20 things) and how he had promised himself as a young man he would NEVER use that on his kids. The Sappington household in Denver must have been particularly in disarray today . . . so David shouted out to his boys, "OK, everybody. Let's do a 20-item pickup!" Kole, who has his dad's sense-of-humor asked innocently, "Dad, do my shoes and socks count as 1 thing . . . or 4?" When he stopped laughing David said, "I have to call my mother!!!"

November 2, 2012 - I went to Stacy's yesterday. She is recovering from surgery and Rick had to go back to work. I made applesauce and worked on my computer while she slept (most of the day). Later she told her Dad how much she appreciated waking up and hearing me puttering around the kitchen . . . said it made her happy to know her Mom was just a whistle away if she needed anything.

November 1, 2012 - I soooooooo enjoy phone calls from my kids . . . and especially enjoyed talking with Kelly who calls regularly "just to check in." When the discussion turned to next week's presidential election she noted, "What this country needs is another cowboy in the White House! We need another Ronald Reagan who wouldn't be pushed around and who was quick to remind our enemies to 'back off or feel our wrath!!!" Love my military girl!

October 31, 2012 - An e-mail from Samantha Reece: Hi is every things ok r u guys free from (Hurricane) Sandy? if not always know u have family in guyana who always have a room do hope all is well love u guys very much and miss u sooooo mush wish to have a couple with the energy to push the work (PEF) again.

October 30, 2012 - Kaytee Skyped us so we could see Adyn and Skylar in their Halloween costumes. As we were about to say "goodbye" I noticed Josh sitting on the couch, so I asked my 6'4"/200+ pound son-in-law if he was going to dress up for Halloween. Without skipping a beat, he responded, "Yes, I'm going as one of the 7 dwarfs!!!"

The Black Name Tag for Seniors

A Black Name Tag upon our chest
We are “seasoned” (been put to the test).
Some may boast and some may brag,
But only a few wear the Black Name Tag.

Eighteen months without kids or TV,
But we are strong, ‘cause with Skype we’ll see
Our children at home, who daily brag. . .
Their parents wear the Black Name Tag.

Each week we teach – each month we train.
Daily we pray we’ll not weary our brain.
At the end of each day, our bodies just drag . . .
Still happy, though, to wear the Black Name Tag.

Back at home the grandkids wait,
Crossing off each calendar date
‘Til Grandpa is home to play and to brag,
Of adventures when wearing the Black Name Tag.

The time quickly comes to say goodbye,
To those we love. We hug, kiss and cry.
We’ll not see them again under their country flag
When we no longer wear our Black Name Tag!

On our return we’ll resume our ways,
We’ll travel and golf, but every day
Thoughts will turn to living from bags.
Such is life for the Black Name Tag.

We’ll remodel the house, take a cruise,
Visit the kids to catch up on the news.
Then the Bishop will ask, as things start to lag,
“Won’t you again wear the Black Name Tag?”