Grandma & Grampa Brown

Scotland Still Beckons

2011-06-09T18:21:00.003-06:00

After being stuck in the Delta Hub at the SLC airport for two days they finally told us they wouldn't be able to get us to Scotland flying the standby 'Buddy Passes'. They were finally able to get us home (Chris on one flight, and me on the last one of the day), but our Scottish trip was gone.
What to do? Go to Cancun, of course!
I still have to go to Scotland, so we are planning now for next year, either Hogimany in Jan. or the tattoo (Edinburgh) in August.
We met some wonderful Brits in Cancun so now Wales is on our list, possibly as a backdrop for book no. 2

Dragon's Source Now Available at Amazon E-Books

2011-02-16T18:25:00.005-07:00

Oh frapturous day! Kaloo Kalay! He chortled in his joy.

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Ddigital-text&field-keywords=Dragon%27s+Source&x=0&y=0

Now I need to get some sales from the eastern half of the country!

Dragon's Source Published at Barnes and Noble!

2011-02-06T20:59:00.021-07:00

As of this afternoon, after almost 2 1/2 years, countless rewrites and endless editing, 'Dragon's Source' has been published by Barnes and Noble in their ebooks division also known as their 'NOOKbook' dept.
http://search.barnesandnoble.com/books/product.aspx?ean=2940012106179

Here is a short excerpt:

The voice she heard in her damaged mind was impossible to ignore. It came from the North so that was the direction her unrelenting rage pulled her. The vestige of her sanity remaining was no longer capable of thinking in words, so the only sounds that came from her tortured throat were the moans and shrieks that she would sometimes punctuate with a sustained scream of unfulfillable frustration.

When her body’s hunger became insistent, she fed it whoever was available. No longer satisfied with small animals, the bean-shidh searched for food that would feed both her body’s demands and the unrelenting craving in her blood for human flesh. After she fed, there was always a place for her to hide before the day could find her. Tumbled walls, large rocks, or old trees with gnarled roots provided spaces into which she could crawl. There was always a place.

With each passing day she looked even less human, and the tidings of her plague began to spread before her face. The Isle of Skye became a fear-filled place where people spoke softly of old legends made new, and the whispered dread of her became more than just a story to frighten children.

Men made bold by peat-smoked whiskey took their dogs and guns onto the moors, but the dogs refused to follow the scent and when any of the men chanced to hear the soft penetrating chill of a low moan, or the gut piercing shock of an enraged shriek wavering through the night’s mist, the boldness in their blood turned cold and they found themselves uncomfortably sober and alone. Most of them made it back home in time to bolt the door.

Twins are growing like Weeds

2010-11-10T15:05:00.003-07:00

Amazing!

Grandkids and Halloween

2010-11-10T14:58:00.005-07:00

What fun! We had most of our grandchildren here for Halloween. The only thing that could have mad it better, would have been if they'd all been here.

Charlie Brown's Elk

2010-09-27T20:50:00.003-06:00

Congrats to Charlie! He finally nailed an Elk with Bow and Arrow.
We're as proud as punch. (He grilled the Tenderloins for us Sunday)
Yummmm.

Welcome Numbers 15 & 16

2010-09-15T13:35:00.002-06:00

The day started early. Anticipation was high. Suspense was intense. (Even though we didn't have to wait very long.) By 8:00am Rex Ezra Jones (7lbs 11 oz) & Beatrice Mennett Jones (6lbs 5oz) were both here and doing fine. Robyn and Lope both came through the ordeal with flying colors and are doing great.

We Got Hammered!

2010-07-09T16:19:00.000-06:00

Keeping Up With The Jones

2010-07-09T16:02:00.003-06:00

Well, after years of trying to talk them into it, the Jones family (Lope, Robyn, Eden, Clara, Jeanette, Elanor, and the unborn twins) have finally moved to Bozeman. Hallelujah!
Robyn and the girls came with me so I could be home in time to spend our 38th wedding anniversary with my sweetheart. Lope had to stay to finish getting the house in Bremerton ready to sale. We have moved across the street to a house that has 5 bedrooms (Did I tell you how much I hate moving?) and we have been welcomed into the new house with the largest hail in Bozeman history. (Lope was envious)
Lope will be here this weekend, and we can hardly wait!

Grandma's New Car

2010-06-05T22:08:00.002-06:00

Newest Cancer Update

2010-05-14T13:35:00.002-06:00

Good news everyone. Chris went in for her regular cancer screening, and she passed with flying colors. Everything came out normal, and the Doctor said she looked great!
We are continuing to improve our diets and exercise regimens. Robyn is putting us on a 'green smoothie' program. Everything I have learned about cancer indicates that most cancers are preventable. It's just really difficult for us to give up processed and junk foods.

Montana David Brown

2010-04-25T20:54:00.000-06:00

And Then, There Were Fourteen

2010-04-25T20:28:00.005-06:00

A lot of wonderful events have been documented on this blog. The birth of our newest grandchild, Montana David Brown, the son of Liberty and Andi, and the little brother of Eryn, deserves a special place of honor among those events. We're proud of you Andi. Thanks for bringing him into the family. You've done a great job!

The Salt Lake City Marathon

2010-04-18T17:10:00.005-06:00

Daughter Candi, and Granddaughter Isabel just after the race.
.
.

Waiting for the start
.
.

Kerry and Tess rode in the 26 mile bike race. Gini and Jason ran the half marathon (13 miles) and did great. Candi and Isabel ran the 5K event (the first marathon for both of them) and they looked fresh enough at the finish, that they could have run another one! Here are the videos for the start and finish.

Have a Wonderful New Year Everybody!

2010-01-03T09:34:00.002-07:00

....and a partrige in a pine tree.

2009-12-17T14:24:00.002-07:00

Actually, it's four grouse in our pine tree.

They've been hanging around the yard for about two weeks now

(Yes Lib, I'm tempted!)

Christmas at Grandma & Grampa's

2009-12-17T14:22:00.000-07:00

A Wonderful Time for Thanksgiving

2009-12-02T08:41:00.002-07:00

It was a wonderful Thanksgiving, and the best part was that I didn't have to wash any beaters. Our thoughtful grandkids kept them clean.

Thanksgiving Slideshow

2009-12-02T08:39:00.000-07:00

Slide Show For Grampa's Snow Day

2009-11-13T14:42:00.000-07:00

Take a look at today!

2009-11-13T14:07:00.003-07:00

Yesterday it snowed 24" at our house. Today it is cold, sunny, and amazing!
I put on x-country skis for the first time in my life. What a workout! There is a reason I didn't see any other skiers, the snow hadn't settled enough to ski on! It was beautiful though, and I need the exercise. Enjoy the pics.
Love,
Grampa Brown

Amazing Grace

2009-11-03T12:34:00.006-07:00

You all know how much I love the song "Amazing Grace". Aunt Gloria sent me this link to IL Diva singing it in the Coloseum in Rome. It's 4 minutes long, and more than worth the time. Be sure to listen all the way to the end. Thanks Aunt Glo!
http://www.amazon.com/gp/mpd/permalink/m3F3OVCGVMBVIO

While Mom & Dad's Away...

2009-10-25T19:43:00.003-06:00

Gini and Jasen went on a short cruise to Mexico, and that means that Grandma and Grampa got to spoil some wonderful grandkids for a few days! (Is it my imagination, or do the grandkids all mind grampa better than.., well, you know what I mean.)

Lib & Andi's High Mountain Wedding

2009-08-27T13:09:00.002-06:00

A Wonderful Day For The Brown Clan

2009-08-20T19:29:00.002-06:00

In a very chilly, and beautiful, high mountain meadow in Montana, sweetheart's vows were exchanged. Andi and Eryn officially became part of our family, and joined their hearts to ours.

Amelia Grace Brown Has Arrived!

2009-07-21T20:47:00.011-06:00

Beautiful!
The medical staff say everything went fine.

Mom looks great! Just out of recovery.

Proud Parents

Hello Little Sister.

She doesn't say much does she?

Awesome!

Is that a smile?

Wonderful!

What a wonderful day! Amelia is here, and both she and her mommy are beautiful and doing fine. She weighed in at 8 lbs 1 oz. and is 20 1/2 inches. Her family is bragging about her like they did all the work, but we know Candi deserves the credit. Good job Mom.

How Boys Learn

2009-06-29T08:39:00.004-06:00

Of course, some boys never do learn. The rest of us learn by doing. (which means making mistakes, and then not making the same ones again.) So when he went to bed and heard the fireworks going off outside, Liam stretched from the top bunk to try and see the rocket's red glare outside his bedroom window. He over-balanced, fell out of his bed and hit his head on the metal firetruck parked on his floor. Four stitches later, he has learned that fireworks cause dents in firetrucks. (Girls learn by watching boys do things, and deciding that they are being "silly")

America's Past Time

2009-06-17T13:14:00.011-06:00

The concentration is intense!

.
Must get to the dog-pile!
.
The crowd goes wild!
.
Mom beams with pride!
.
Everyone pays close attention, to something else!

The smell of new-mown grass. The sharp crack of the bat! The crowd goes wild!

A well hit ball finds it's way into the outfield..., and every kid on the team goes after it! When they all get there, the dog pile is painful and intense, but it is the most enthusiastic part of the game, for the diminutive players know that the survivor of the pile who comes out of it with the ball is a hero!

Mean while, the opposing coach has convinced the smiling batter that it is necessary to run to 1st base where she now stands proudly, with a joyful burst of fidgeting.

The T-Ball game has begun!

Dragon's Source & Catching Up with the Browns

2009-05-30T07:35:00.003-06:00

The new cover art for Dragon's Source

The blog for the book is http://dragonssource.blogspot.com/

Wow! Sorry we haven't updated in a few weeks. The list seems endless, and I'm not complaining!

I'm still working on getting Dragon's Source published, and while I've been sending the letters out fast and furious, I've been using the time to edit and rewrite whenever possible. during the editing process, the book has grown from 94,000 words, to 97,207! It's getting to the point that I'm afraid to read it again.

The cover art is finished (see photo) and I like it alot! The problem is that publishers rarely allow the author any say on the cover art, so I may have been wasting my time. I hope not, because I've seen some really poor covers on the shelves.

Chris is doing great! She's currently working in Billings and home on the weekends.

The bad news is that my little brother's wife, Neva, passed away last Sunday morning after a long fight with breast cancer. The memorial service is in Henderson, Nev. on the 6th of June, and we will be traveling down with Mom and Mac. It will be the first time we've been there since we left over 25 years ago. I can't imagine how Scott is coping. I know that if I were in his shoes, I'd be a basket case. I can't think of anything that I could say to him that would make him feel better. We had to hide from the fear of Chris' cancer this last year, and we're so grateful that she is cancer-free right now. The really scary thing is that the doctors told Scott and Neva that she was cancer-free as well, and then found out that they had read the tests wrong.

I hope everyone will keep Scott and the kids in your prayers. I'm sure he needs them.

Some people thought that the speeches were just the teensiest bit too long.

2009-05-05T00:16:00.005-06:00

The flowers blush with envy....

2009-05-04T22:20:00.001-06:00

Spring Flowers at Temple Square (click on them to enlarge)

2009-05-04T10:53:00.002-06:00

Mac and Kelly earn their Bachelor's Degees

2009-05-04T09:54:00.003-06:00

Last weekend, we had the privalege of attending the graduation ceremonies at UVU in Orem, Utah, where we were able to watch as Mac and Kelly were awarded their Bachelor's Degrees.

We are so proud of them both!

Below is a slideshow of some of the photos. If you click on the photos, you'll be able to see it full sized.

Graduation Slideshow

2009-05-04T09:47:00.001-06:00

This is Spring?

2009-04-15T09:03:00.002-06:00

You can always tell when spring has finally arrived in Bozeman, because that's when we get the biggest snowstorm of the year!

Easter Slide Show

2009-04-12T23:23:00.001-06:00

Easter at Grandma and Grampa Brown's

2009-04-12T22:39:00.006-06:00

What a wonderful weekend!
Lib, Andi, and Eryn came up from Rigby, and Pip, Candi, Charlie, Liam and Adian all particapated in a memorable holiday. We colored eggs. We hid eggs. We ate eggs. In fact, we started eating Friday, and didn't stop until Sunday evening! Now the hope is that we have found all of the eggs that we hid!
The weather was amazing, and we all got to swing a golf club or two.
Hope you enjoy the photos and that you all had a great weekend also.
Love, Grandma and Grampa Brown

Still slugging through the mud of publisher land

2009-04-09T17:42:00.003-06:00

The Standing Stones at Callenish on the Isle of Lewis

where DRAGON'S SOURCE climaxes.

The good news for my book DRAGON'S SOURCE, is that I've had positive responses to my 'query' letters from two really wonderful agencies. Each of them has requested additional chapters, and/or synopsis pages for consideration. They each receive 100 - 200 queries a day, and I'm not certain what percentage of those are asked for more pages, but I know it isn't very many. So at least I've made the first cut!

The bad news is that even if my book sells right away, it will probably be 8 -12 months before it hits the book stores. Once it sells, it still has to go through the editing process and then be assigned a place in the line to be printed, and all that takes time.

The good news is that I've started on book two of the series. So hopefully, by the time that book one is hitting the shelves, book two will be in the system as well.

2009-04-02T13:58:00.003-06:00

The view from the tee box, 1,400 feet above the green!

I know that we have some avid golfers who visit this blog.

You all need to go to this link to see the most extreme golf hole in the world, and it's a par 3!

http://sports.yahoo.com/golf/blog/devil_ball_golf/post/Quite-simply-the-most-amazing-golf-hole-on-the-p?urn=golf,152314

2009-03-11T11:27:00.005-06:00

As you're probably already aware, I have been searching for an agent and publisher for my new book Dragon's Source. During the search, I came across this blog that you'll love. Be sure to check out the older posts. http://bentobjects.blogspot.com/

Dragon's Source is Finished!

2009-02-28T07:46:00.006-07:00

It's done! After almost exactly 4 months of work, 94,000 words, 56 chapters, and 317 pages, my first book is finished.

I'm now shopping for agents and publishers, while I continue to edit and refine the manuscript, and this may be the hardest part. I hope not, but since I don't have any other frame of reference, I'll just have to dig in and get it done!

I've already started to outline the second book in the trilogy. The working title will be "Children of the Stones".

I'm also beginning the outline of an historical fiction book that is based on the Bennett family as they moved from the Carolinas, through the Cumberland Gap of the Great Smokey Mountains, and into western Tennessee. The story will add flesh to what our family already knows about their lives as pioneers and will climax with their experiences during the Civil War.

Now onward into publisher land!

Smiles for the Brown Family

2009-02-19T07:25:00.003-07:00

Christine and I are more than pleased to announce the engagement of our son Liberty Ronald, to his beautiful high school sweetheart, Andi Piper and her wonderful daughter Eryn!

They will be getting married in Bozeman, sometime this summer.

So with Candi and Charlie's new baby, that means that this summer the Brown Clan will have three more members.

Browns Gu Brath!

Current Projects

2009-02-09T09:00:00.005-07:00

Apologies to every one for the lack of postings in the last month. To say that we have been busy is an understatement of epic proportions.

With the Bozeman market officially closed, Chris is now working in Billings, and only coming home on the weekends. Normally, this sucks big time, and it does now as well, but the upside is that, with Chris gone it's giving me more time to work on my book.

That's right! I've been writing a book!

My kids have always tried to encourage me to write my stories and publish them. (The stories, not the kids) and I've always fantasized about writing books for a living. Well, here is book no. 1.

I Can't tell you a lot about it on this very unsecured format, but I can tell you that when it is published, you'll be able to find it in the Fantasy Fiction area of your book stores.

I'm almost done. So far, I've written 75,000 words, on 255 pages, in 39 chapters. This first book, in what is planned to be a trilogy, is in three parts of which I've completed the first two.

Thus far, the reviews have been enthusiastic for the chapters that I've sent out.

Now, as I come to the end of the writing process, I have begun to look for agents and publishers. This part may be more difficult than the writing portion.

Any way, wish me luck, and I'll keep you up to date on the progress.

The Year That Was

2009-01-03T10:05:00.004-07:00

Forever Children

2008 Grampa's Perspective

We've had the chance, over the last few days, for some retro-spection about 2008. Because of this blog, it has certainly been the most documented year of our lives. One needs only to begin at the older posts and read forward to hear about all the major events that filled the year and our lives. It only remains to put the year into perspective and rate it like we do the movies. You know..., 1 to 5 stars.

The single most defining thing of the last year was, of course, Christine's bout with colon cancer. She had several surgeries and the many trips to Billings, Montana for her chemotherapy treatments. The rest of the year, spent with family and friends, had to be shoe-horned in around the logistics of those treatments.

You might be surprised when you hear that we give the year 2008, 5 stars. That's right, *****!

With all that we've learned from the battle with cancer, the rest of the year was made that much sweeter. Yes, 2008 was a very good year!

It is my prayer that all of us will learn from this last wonderful year and use the lessons it has taught us to make all of the years to come, that much better.

*****

2008 Grandma's Perspective

What a wonderful blessed year this has been. Through the trials and adventures of the past twelve months I have come to understand more completely the Lord's plan for us here on earth. He has blessed us with family and friends that have enriched not only this year but our lives before and after. I have come to a more complete understanding of how important our loved ones are to us. You have all been there when the times were hard giving your love and support to us when most needed, and were there to celebrate the good times as well. We have been able to spend time with you either in person, by phone, via email, and through our thoughts and prayers, all of them are special memories. When I reflect on the events of the year and try to pinpoint the most special, it is not where we were or what we were doing it, it was the choice memories of times shared with those we love. May we all make it a goal to spend more time together this year and to live our lives following the example of our Savior so that we may be

together forever.

A Christmas Visitor

2008-12-23T09:06:00.003-07:00

Yesterday morning (Monday) Grandma and I woke up with a visitor in our yard. The Canadian Goose had taken refuge from the snow storm next to the smaller of the two pines in our back yard. It has been there now for a day and a half, as the snow continues to fall.
Geese are very rarely alone. They mate for life and when they travel, they do so in family groups. This goose will call out every now and again, especially when it hears the train at the railroad crossing. There is no doubt it is calling for it's mate or family.
At this Christmas time of the year I am reminded of the importance of having loved ones around us. How cold and empty the world must seem to those of us who don't have a loving family with which to share the warmth of the holidays.
May all of you find the love and joy to fill your lives during this wonderful time of the year and may we always remember those that are cold and lonely in ways that might ease their burden.
Merry Christmas and Love to all of you,
Grandma and Grampa,
Mom and Dad,
Ron and Chris

Re-Trimming the Tree

2008-12-19T18:47:00.003-07:00

Vanna Brown

Ok, this is how it went down, literally!

Grampa brown had the fun job of watching Liam and Aidan while his parents went to billings on Thursday. Mid-morning Aidan was in the toy room and Liam and I were in the hallway when we heard a crash from the living room. Liam and I looked around the corner to see what happened and found the tree had fallen across Grandma's chair. Ornaments, lights, needles, and the water from the tree stand were everywhere! Liam looked up at me and said "Grampa, that wasn't me!" (He must get blamed alot at home)

So the tree is back up and redecorated. If it comes down again, out it goes!

Trimming The Tree

2008-12-11T09:27:00.017-07:00

Merry Christmas

When we got the tree home, we found a tiny nest tucked in safe, high in the branches

How it survived after being cut down, dragged through the snow, and the

70 mph ride home on top of the car, we'll never know.

Helping Grampa with the pudding

Sparkeling clean after a momma spit face bath!

Naughty or nice?

Never trust a "skinny" cook

Grandma Brown

Candi loves Christmas

Candi and Charlie hoping it's a little girl in July

Last Saturday, Charlie and Candi and Liam and Aiden, went up with Grandma and Grampa Brown into the Gallatin range to cut down our christmas trees. Wednesday, we had Them back over to our house for a dinner of left over turkey. Christine made turkey enchiladas. One pan of red sauce, and one pan of green sauce. (VeryChristmasy) Charlie made the salsa and we had a mexican feast! I should point out that in order to have left overs, we had to cook another turkey last Sunday. We had 24 people for Thanksgiving and there wasn't enough left over for the usual left over festivals. For desert, I bought some day-old chocolate donuts and made chocolate bread pudding. (a recipe inspired by Robyn Jones) If you want the recipe, let me know and I'll post it.

Anyway, after the enchiladas, we all put on our tree trimming hats and went to work!

In order to hear this video, you must first scroll up to the music selections in the right column and click on the pause icon. come on, you can do it!

Happy Thanksgiving

2008-12-05T17:02:00.010-07:00

How could the Seahawks lose with fans like these!

Elanor and Robyn

Our Elf Princess Isabel

homemade Egg Nog for Breakfast at Grampa's

Triptophan kicking in

Liberty and Lillia

The Jones surprise Grampa

Most of the Thanksgiving pictures are on Gini's blog @ http://rigbyericksons.blogspot.com/

Wow! What a wonderful Thanksgiving. We were planning on the Ericksons from Rigby, and Charlie and Candi's family from here, and Zac and Pip and Liberty of course. What we weren't planning on was the wonderful surprise at church on the Sunday before Thanksgiving. We arrived just before the start of the meeting when we noticed Charlie and Candi and the boys sitting about three rows in front of us. Surprise! But that wasn't all. Sitting next to to the boys, was Lope, and next to him was Eden and Clara and Janette. (Robyn had taken Elenor out to change her) So we had a wonderful reunion. The only ones missing were Mac and Kelly. ( They had Thanksgiving with Grandma Adams and Uncle Kerry and Aunt Tess.) It was a wonderful week! (The only downside was the lack of leftovers)

In Remission

2008-11-19T09:04:00.002-07:00

Christine went in for her 1st post chemotherapy cat scan, and it was clear. That's the good news. Also, she will have the "port" in her shoulder removed on the 1st of December. It's just an out patient procedure and we'll be glad to get rid of it.

Although, to the best of their knowledge, she is cancer free (or in remission as they call it) at the moment, they will monitor her frequently for the next five years with cat scans and colonoscopies before they will declare her "cured".

In the mean time, we will continue to refine our eating habits to give her the best chance possible for having a real cure.

What ifs: What if we'd caught the cancer two or even three years earlier? What if we'd been eating as we should have all along? What if, What if, What if? It doesn't do us any good to worry about the what ifs now. We're on the wrong side of that question.

You, on the other hand, are a different matter. What if you were eating what you should be eating? (Lot's of fiber and flax seed and avoiding processed foods and sugar) What if you scheduled a colonoscopy and had a polyp removed before it turned into a tumor? I hope you're always on the good side of your what ifs, and use them before it's to late. If you're to ambivalent to do it for yourself, do it for us and all the others that love you and want to keep you around for a while longer.

A Time For Recovery

2008-10-27T11:14:00.007-06:00

Chris asked me the other day if this is who I still see when I look at her. I answered "No, the woman I see is even more beautiful and much more wise". I certainly appreciate her more now than the self-centered kid I was then.
The chemotherapy has taken it's toll, but not near as drastically as treatments some other cancer patients have had to go through. She lost about 2/3 of her hair, but that looks like it has already started to come back. Of more concern to me, is the nerve damage she has suffered in her extremities. (hands and feet are numb) hopefully that should improve in about 6-12 months. She's concerned about the weight she's put on with the anti nausea medication that she's had to take. (you're supposed to keep nibbling) The problem that affected her the most was probably the fatigue. She has slept a lot, but that's something that will correct itself soonest.
Now she goes into the "monitoring" phase of her treatment. We expect a clean slate because we will be working to keep ourselves healthy.

("Why?" you ask, and I answer "Read below!")

Well, hopefully, we are through the worst of it.

Christine has completed her chemotherapy regimen and is ready to get on with her life. While I have hated seeing what the poison has done to her, we both hope and pray that the treatment has lifted her into the "cured" column when we add up the pluses and minuses.

Here's what we've learned:

1- Cancer is mostly preventable. There are foods that help prevent cancer, and when we ignore that fact, we are being stupid! Our diets should be high fiber (and must include flax seed) and we should limit our intake of red meats and processed foods. This is not hard to do. It doesn't cost any more, and in most cases will cost less than eating what's bad for us.

2- Early diagnosis is critical. The longer you bury your head in the sand, the worse your prognosis is going to be. Do not ignore your body! If you have symptoms, find out what they mean. (Our medical system is rated at 39th in the world and slipping. You must take control of your treatment options!)

3- Don't allow yourself to be sold or bullied into treatment you don't need. (This includes being "assigned" to a doctor you don't know or trust.) This is part of "taking control" Don't be lazy. Do your homework and insist on being in on all decisions.

4- Push yourself to do as much as you can. Life doesn't go on hold during chemotherapy. Do as much as you can, it helps keep up your attitude and that is critical to healing.

The "Eilean" Highlands

2008-10-16T09:14:00.009-06:00

Gini was scolding me this morning, telling me it was time for an update. These are all pictures from the Highlands of Scotland, and I hope it satisfies her for a few days.

Click on the photos to see them full sized.

The adventure begins

2008-10-09T09:50:00.005-06:00

Ron and Chris, Terrill and Margie,

outside Rosslyn Chapel

I just want to take a minute to thank Lisa Deneen of Travel Pros for all the work she did to make this such a perfect vacation. All of the places she booked for us were magnificent and we are greatful for all her efforts on our behalf.

There are a million warm sunny beaches in the world, but there is only one Scotland! Gun cuireadh do chupa thairis le slainte agus sonus, h-uile latha, na chi 'snach fhaic! (May your cup overflow with health and happiness, every day, whether I see you or not!)

Cathedrals Churches Tombs and Graves

2008-10-09T09:47:00.000-06:00

2008-10-08T12:09:00.001-06:00

Breaking Dawn at Eilean Iarmain, Isle of Skye, Scotland

How did they know?

2008-10-08T12:03:00.002-06:00

How did they know we were coming, and why did they want to warn people?

The Joy that is Edinburgh!

2008-10-08T11:53:00.001-06:00

Fighting the English with William Wallace!

Scotland's Magnificent Capital - Edinburgh

2008-10-08T11:49:00.000-06:00

Scottish Castles

2008-10-08T10:51:00.002-06:00

Castle Eilean Donan

2008-10-08T08:16:00.006-06:00

As we parked our car and walked toward the Castle, a sudden and intense rain squall

slammed us. If you look at the bridge you can see the rain sweeping

up and over the side of the bridge right where the MacCleods

beat Christopher Lambert and drove him out of the

clan, in the movie "The Highlander"

The views of these castles as we came around that last bend in the road, were absolutely visceral. The beauty and history combined to hit me in the gut every time. We knew we would see alot of castles, but we were unprepared for the shear number of them. They were literally everywhere. Sometimes only a mile apart. It was a real eye opener as to what the neighborhood was like in those days.

Hogworts and Hogsmead but no Harry

2008-10-07T22:48:00.004-06:00

The Hogsmead Railway Station

The famous Hogwarts Express Trestle

Yes, this is where they film the "Harry Potter" movies. If you remove the Bonnie Prince Charlie Monument in the foreground, and computer generate the Castle, this is where Hogwarts is filmed.

The Food of Scotland

2008-10-07T14:24:00.003-06:00

I'm going to start out with the most negative thing about Scottish food and that is It is very expensive! That being said, we can move on to how good everything was! Did I say good? I meant GREAT! The "haggis" was wonderful. I had it four different ways, each with a unique sauce, and I loved it. The traditional way is to serve it with "neeps"(mashed turnips) and "tatties"(mashed potatoes) and all covered with a whiskey sauce, Yum! The traditional Scottish breakfast or "Fry UP" is something to be experienced before you die, but then eating it is consuming enough cholesterol to kill you anyway, but it is so good.

As you might guess, Scotland does seafood really well. to try and stay with in our budget, we feasted on fish and chips frequently. It was never a hardship! Most of the time it was battered haddock (about a 10 inch slab) or cod. We did eat venison (It's farmed in Scotland) and some mutton as well, but there were several evenings that we dressed up and had just elegant dinners. We had a wonderful banquet in Borthwick Castle, but by far, the most memorable Meal was in Oban. We were staying at the Manor House Hotel (Amazing place) and we asked the owner about seafood restaurants close by. She told us about a small one, just two minutes walk away, but she wasn't certain we could get in since they only have two seatings a night (one at 6:30 and one at 8:30). This didn't make a lot of since to us but it was only two minutes to find out so we walked up the lane and into history!

This little restaurant is called "The Seafood Temple" but locals just call it the "Temple". It only has 6 tables (Mom says that they had 8 tables) and the menu is hand written to reflect what they are serving that night, and it all looked wonderful. They fill up the tables twice each night and when we got there about 8:00 pm, the waitress said they were just finishing the first seating and wouldn't be ready for the second seating for half an hour , but we could come in and sit at a vacant table and wait.

We came in and set down but we didn't wait. They started bring food to our table with the drinks. (Keep in mind, we haven't ordered anything yet) Suddenly there is a plate of calamari and and smoked salmon to keep us occupied. Then, the Chef/owner, sent us giant scallop shells full of scallop chowder because he said it was cold and blustery outside and he wanted to warm us up. Finally we looked at the menu and at the bottom was the item labeled "Seafood Platter Magnifique for two" It sounded really good, so Margie and Terrill ordered one and so did we.

Terrill was heartbroken that we couldn't eat it all, but no two people could! four people would have had trouble finishing it. First they brought the oysters, then the platter with every kind of seafood you could imagine. Mussels, giant crab claws, smoked salmon, and steamed salmon, clams, scallops, calamari, herring, langastinos (some with roe), and on top of it all, a giant whole lobster with roe. then came the mashed potatoes with a scallop sauce for gravy. The owner came out of the kitchen and visited each table but he spent the most time with us. ( he really likes Americans, but thinks we try to eat to fast!)

The Middle Part II

2008-10-07T14:16:00.000-06:00

Last Third of Scotland

2008-10-07T13:30:00.000-06:00

Wow! The best vacation in our lives!

2008-10-07T08:41:00.009-06:00

I'm fairly sure it wasn't pink in the year 1625

In the gardens of The Roman Camp Hotel

One of the "parlers" at the beautiful Roman Camp Hotel.

Nine hour flight home is easier in first class!

Thanks to our friend Peggy Platt, we were able to get "buddy passes" for our flights. What is even more amazing is that she hooked us up so we were able to fly "business ellite" on the long flight from Edinburgh to JFK. Another first for us and boy, are we ever spoiled now! Thanks Peggy, it was wonderful.

-Of all the things we were able to experience on our trip to Scotland, the most enjoyable memories that we will take away with us are those of the Scottish People.

Near the top of that list was our last evening in Scotland when we were sitting with Margie and Terrill in one of the magnificent parlors of the Roman Camp Hotel (It was built in 1625 on the remains of what had been an old Roman Camp, and used as a hunting lodge.) We had been talking with several other couples, when this wonderful older couple engaged us in conversation. It turned out that she had visited the states and sang gaelic (pronounced gaw-lic in Scotland) songs at a Celtic festival. The conversation ran it's course and after a pause this white-haired lady announced "I think I'll sing you a song now." And to our surprise, in a clear and lovely voice, she began to sing. It was such a strange moment, and yet so appropriate, since we were leaving Scotland the next morning, and the song she chose to sing us was a farewell to Scotland, sung by the Scots as they were forced to leave their homes and immigrate to the new world.

-When she was done, we were all moved. I asked her if she would sing it for us one more time so I could record it. She answered simply "Of course." and you can share the moment with us below. I'm sorry that the lighting wasn't better so you could see how beautiful she is. You'll need to pause the background music and then play this video

THIS IS IT !!

2008-09-21T21:20:00.003-06:00

"Alright! You can stay in my bedroom, but I'm not giving you the Mormon discount"

We're on our way to Scotland!

Tomorrow morning we leave for the first leg of what will be the better part of two days of traveling. I'm not going to complain because in the old days it used to take up to a week to get to Scotland. Can you imagine? At any rate, on Wednesday morning, we'll be arriving in Edinburgh (pronounced Ed-in-bur-row,, Can anyone tell me why they can't spell something like it sounds?) So, this will be the last post until we return, on or about, October 6th. The Bad thing is that you'll have to put up with more Scotland stuff, but the good thing is that at least you'll be seeing photos that we actually took instead of something I found on the web.

So, A h-uile la' sona dhuibh 's gun la' idir dona dhuib ( May all your days be happy ones)

How will we look in kilts?

2008-09-09T16:42:00.005-06:00

Dunnotter Castle below Stonehaven

Rated the most unhealthy breakfast in Europe!

Anticipating Scotland!

Two weeks from today we'll be winging our way to Scotland! We're counting the hours and wish that we could take all of you with us! The first thing we're going to do, is visit Roslyn Chapel, from the DaVinci Code. ( It's on our way to the Borthwick Castle where we're staying for the first two nights. )

Scotland is rightfully proud of it's scenic beauty, but that's not why we chose to go there. I'd match the beauty in the mountains around Yellowstone Park against any in the world, and the fantastic seascapes and primordial forests of the Great Northwest are beyond my poor powers of description. No, we're going to experience a land and people that are unique in all the world. A land that is the home of ancestors for both of us, and above all else, it is the home of "Haggis"! Yes, we are traveling halfway around the world to taste real scottish haggis. So wish us "Boinne ann am beul na gaoithe" which is gaelic for something really cool I'm sure..., I just don't know what.

A WONDERFUL VISIT FROM MOM

2008-08-21T15:46:00.011-06:00

Jeanett Bennett Brown Adams August 2008

Just after sundown, waiting for the full moonrise

She wasn't used to it being so cool (68)

"Are we there yet?"

This is a photo of Palisade Falls that Mom hiked up to. The altitude is just over 7200 ft. and she kept saying "How much further do I have to go?" and "I can hear the falls now, is this close enough?" She did ok though, and you should have seen how fast she made it back down.

This is a closeup of Mom's last Bozeman sunset taken on Monday evening. If you click on it, you'll see the large version with a very visable sunspot in the upper right quarter.

.

We traveled to Utah for the annual Lloyd family reunion, and when we came home we were able to talk Mom into coming with us for a week. It was wonderful to be able to spend some time with her again. (As you can see from the pics above, at 82 she can still do some hiking) Zac and I took her back tues. and came home wed. and we miss her already.

Chris was unable to have her chemo treatment last weekend, (low white cell count) so she'll have it this fri. We are so ready for this to be done!

ONLY 4 TO GO

2008-08-03T12:05:00.008-06:00

Yellowstone High

Hello Everyone,

We've just completed another treatment. That means we've only got 4 to go. This one seemed especially hard on Chris. One of the more obvious reasons is that Chris didn't fast before this treatment like she has in the past, but she is disconnected from the pump now and on her way to recovery. Since she cannot get her needle area wet while she's on the pump, she doesn't wash her hair for the 48 hours she's hooked up. Then the first thing she does when she unhooks is to soak in a nice hot bath and wash what hair she has left. Yes, it has been thinning big time, but we're not overly concerned about it. It's still up in the air whether or not we'll do the shave or not, but lately, the only way she can wear it is in a ponytail. The negatives are still so trivial when we see what others are going through.

We've had Margie & Terrill's daughter Martel staying with us ( I think she's getting a little bored!) but she was a big help during the yard sale we had this weekend. It was a dumb weekend to have a yard sale because the "Sweetpea festival" was going on, so we didn't get many customers. We'll probably do it again in two weeks. I want a clean garage!

OVER THE "HUMP"

2008-07-17T12:34:00.008-06:00

Christine and her baby boy Charlie

.

Well here we are on the downhill side of Chris' chemotherapy treatments. The light at the end of the tunnel is definitely getting brighter. This last weekend was strange because the chemo infusion hit Chris harder than usual.

On Friday, when they began the treatment, her white cell count was down to 1100. (normal is around 1500) It wasn't to big a deal but they gave her a drug that I would have to inject on Saturday and Sunday.

We gave her the shot on Saturday and it hit her hard. She ended up sleeping the rest of the weekend. It was then that I started to read the warnings that came with the drug, and (in bold and capitals) it said to make certain the last shot was given at least 24 hrs before chemo was to begin and the doctor had us giving the shots while she was hooked up to the pump!!! So we didn't give the Sunday shot, and Chris started feeling better Sunday evening.

I was getting somewhat cynical before all this came down the pike, but now I am convinced that is absolutely dangerous and stupid to put all your trust into our corrupt medical establishment.

We have to keep control of our health care decisions, and make certain we understand what is being done to us.

Please don't get me wrong, I know that there are wonderful doctors out there, but there are many more that don't care for a patient past their wallet. (Nurses are the opposite. Most are absolutely wonderful, and underpaid)

I'm working under the assumption that when the chemo is behind us, with better dietary and lifestyle habits, we won't have to go through anything like this again. I have come to realize that, here in America, we are eating ourselves to death.

Camping with Charlie ,Candi, and the Boys

2008-07-05T20:25:00.022-06:00

.................................................RIP to my favorite hat!
.

............."Chris, see if he'll let you get just a little bit closer!"

We haven't been camping in ages. It was so much fun to go to Yellowstone this weekend and camp. Liam and Aidan were so good, and made the trip wonderful for Grandma and Grampa.

The one sad thing was that while we were down on the edge of Yellowstone Lake, a gust of wind took my favorite hat into the lake (It's the one I'm wearing in the photo on top of the Coba Pyramid) The Ranger thought she had a pole that could reach it (but it wasn't long enough) and while we were waiting, this huge group of Chinese came by on the boardwalk, and they all had to have their pictures taken with the hat in the background. The ones with the cameras were giving directions like "Point to the hat and smile!" At least that's what I thought they were saying because they all posed by pointing to the hat and smiled for the photos to be taken!

At dinner by the Old Faithful Inn, we were the main course for the gazillion mosquitoes.

We were surprized by all the geysers spouting around old faithful including one down by the lake that the ranger, who couldn't rescue my hat, said never happens.

We had a great time and can't wait to go again soon!

ALMOST HALFWAY DONE !

2008-07-01T09:45:00.007-06:00

.......28 June 1972, Salt Lake City, Utah, Temple Square

Chris had a wonderful weekend inspite of the chemo pump she was hooked up to, and had to drag around with her where ever she went. Her white blood cell count was back up high enough on Friday for them to be able to give her number 5 chemotherapy treatment. The only problem with that timing is that the "empty alarm" went off during Sacrament Meeting on Sunday. So we left right after the service (which was just as well because she slept through most of it anyway) to come home and disconnect her from the pump. Once that task was accomplished, she promptly took another nap.

Chemotherapy is supposed to do a number on you with fatigue, but Chris is holding up remarkably well. On Saturday, (our anniversary) we went to the farmer's market here in Bozeman at the fairgrounds. It was something keeping up with her! We went to lunch at Dave's Sushi and for dinner we set up the tables out under the shade on the lawn and had buffalo burgers and striper bass for dinner.

All-in-all, it was a wonderful day to celebrate our 36th wedding anniversary.

A Fun Week With Bennett

2008-07-01T09:19:00.003-06:00

Bennett got to spend the week with Grampa here in Bozeman, and we had fun! We went golfing (He's getting pretty good) We went to a couple of movies. (The Hulk ((really good)) WALL-E ((really great)) and we checked out some stuff from the library) We went to the Museum of the Rockies, and shopping for Grandma's anniversary present, and just hung out together. I enjoyed having him here alot, but all good things come to an end and on Sunday afternoon Uncle Liberty picked him up and took him back to Rigby.

Once more into the breach dear friends....

2008-06-26T22:42:00.002-06:00

Christine was supposed to have her next chemotherapy infusion last Tues. but when they did her blood workup earlier in the day, she only had a white blood cell count of 700. (normal is around 1500) So she's been having daily shots to spark more white cell production, and she will have her infusion on Fri.

This is one of the expected side effects of the chemotherapy and should have already happened earlier in her treatments. The oncologist is rather amazed that she's handling it this well. It seems that the fasting is proving to be very effective. If you know anybody on chemo you should pass this on to them. (Read about it in the older postings)

They're Always Hungry

2008-06-21T17:26:00.002-06:00

Good News! We can use the deck again! Momma and Daddy Robin continue to feed these beaks even while we're out there. They don't like us, but they'll put up with us for awhile.

THEY GROW UP SO QUICKLY

2008-06-19T12:58:00.002-06:00

How did they fit in those little eggs just two days ago!

THEY'RE HATCHING RIGHT NOW!

2008-06-16T19:57:00.002-06:00

If you click on the image, you can see the egg on the left is starting to show holes.

I feel like I'm doing a special for National Geografic. It's so cool watching them peck their way out.

SLEEPY WEEKEND

2008-06-16T10:08:00.002-06:00

Chris was very tired this weekend after her chemo infusion ended on Friday. It seemed like every time she sat down somewhere, she went right to sleep. She refuses to give in to it though, and she wants to take part in everything the family is doing. However, it's nice to see her rebound a couple of days later, and she's back to full steam this morning.

MADE IT TO THE BIG 59 !!!

2008-06-16T09:54:00.003-06:00

OK, so maybe 59 is not that big a deal, but it is a good excuse to post another picture of me in the blog. Saturday, (my birthday) we slept in to the unbelievable hour of 8:00, and then went in search of treasure at garage sales. Later we went to Charlie & Candi's for elk burgers. (Charlie is worried about running out of elk before hunting season, but he still has plenty of deer meat.) It was interesting to watch Liam and Adien singing "happy birthday to you" (over and over and over again) with their mouths full of chocolate cake. Ugh! Thanks for all the cards and presents, especially the 12 string guitar that Chris got for me.

Four Down, Eight to Go!

2008-06-11T10:41:00.003-06:00

Grandma Brown starts her fourth chemotherapy treatment today. That means she's 1/3 of the way done.

We read a report on a study about fasting prior to chemotherapy treatments. It appears that when a patient fasts for 48 hrs before the chemo infusion, it puts the healthy cells into "survival mode", something that the cancer cells don't have the abillity to do. this means that more of the drugs go to the cancer and less to the rest of the body. This helps in two ways; first it means that the side effects for the healthy cells are lessened, and that the doctors will be able to increase, or even double, the amount of chemo that each patient can tolerate. The research looks really promising, and since it can't hurt, Chris and I are fasting before her treatments.

We were thinking about visiting Yellowstone this weekend, if the snow stops. We'll just play it by ear. We're hoping Peggy & Preston will come up from SLC and go with us. (Won't that be fun!)

OUT OF AFRICA ! KELLY'S BACK !

2008-06-11T10:29:00.009-06:00

We are so relieved to have Kelly back safe and sound! It looks like she's had a wonderful, life changing experience. You all need to go to http://macandkelly.blogspot.com/ (just click on it) to read about her trip/mission, and see all the photos. Welcome home Kelly!

Spring in Bozeman

2008-06-11T10:14:00.003-06:00

Are we certain that this is June?

MAD MAMMA !

2008-06-11T10:04:00.003-06:00

We can't use our deck without getting cussed at. I was a little worried about this but I guess we can live with it for a little while longer.

I'M SO EXCITED!!

2008-06-05T16:59:00.006-06:00

Dad

Mom

Our messy new neighbors are expecting. The nest was barely completed, the mortar (mud) not even completely dried, when the mom started laying. The results? Four beautiful blue eggs.

We'll keep you updated on the progress and try to save some of the blue shells for the grand kids to study up close when they visit.

One problem is that the nest is only about 8 inches from the back door. Every time we go out we get severely reprimanded by the birds. They are obviously very concerned parents!

Just another day in Paradise

2008-06-03T10:35:00.001-06:00

THREE DOWN, NINE TO GO

2008-06-01T11:26:00.005-06:00

Each new chemotherapy infusion seems to be just a little worse the the previous one.

It's Sunday morning and we have just finished disconnecting Chris from her pump. The technology is pretty cool, but the side-effects aren't that great. Yesterday she was very tired and couldn't keep her eyes open for the movie we tried to watch or the book she was trying to read. I finally nagged her into going to bed about 8:30 pm and she had the hardest time waking up this morning.

I hate that she has to do this! The idea of having to pump poison into her body is completely repellent to me, and I'm becoming very cynical about our medical establishment. After all, why should they want to cure cancer when they can make so much more money treating it? It's a big problem with a profit-based medical system.

On the plus side, she bounces back quickly and will be OK in another day. She's also strengthened so much by the love and prayers of her family and friends. This is much more than just a trite phrase! It has become a physical fact that we can observe from day to day. This morning I read to her a note that Gini had posted about her on the rigbyericson's blog and the effect was noteworthy and instantaneous. We love you all and you make such a huge difference in our lives.

New Neighbors

2008-05-29T17:21:00.004-06:00

Yesterday when the thunder and hail and rain and wind storms were coming through the Valley of the Gallatin, we had, what I thought was, two crazy robins struggeling to build a nest on top of the light by our back door. The top of the light is pointed and very slick, and all day long they kept hauling the nesting materials through the storms only to find that the last load had slipped, or been blown, off the light fixture when they returned with the next batch of grass. At the end of the day, there were three sad strings of old grass hanging over the light, and not a robin in sight.

This morning, it was very evident that these birds didn't give up easily, and they had a respectible pile of grass on the fixture. By late afternoon, the nest was complete and ready for the young couple to move into.

I have had second thoughts about allowing birds to nest under the awning. The mess is already in evidence. But my heart went out to them with all of their arduous labor, and I have grandchildren who will love to see the powder blue eggs and watch as the babies learn to stretch their wings and fly. I just couldn't find it in myself to destroy something so amazing.

So, It looks like we have some new neighbors for a couple of months. I hope they don't throw any wild parties!

SPRING IS FINALLY HERE!

2008-05-29T13:35:00.003-06:00

2008-05-27T18:24:00.000-06:00

FOUR REALLY REALLY CUTE GIRLS

2008-05-27T09:58:00.003-06:00

This is just before Lillia and Maggie were born so all we're missing is Isabell

We had a wonderful Memorial weekend. (except the lines were to long so I didn't get to see Indianna Jones) Grandma and I got to spend most of the time with Charlie and Candi and the boys. We did get to barbeque a couple of times, but with all the rain and flooding we've had here over the last two weeks, we didn't get to eat outside. Friday we had the missionaries and Charlie, Candi, Liam, and Adian over for barbequed mesquite lime salmon with skewered shrimp and cold boiled shrimp. (The missionaries were impressed!) and Saturday we had fresh rubin panini style sandwiches with "M0mma Mac's" dark dark rye bread. Sunday we fixed a really great chicken salad, and Monday we had "elk burgers and grandma's potato salad at Charlie and Candi's. Today we are recovering by getting back on our diets!

Watch out for the sand trap!

2008-05-21T18:12:00.002-06:00

Grandma Brown and daughter Candi Brown on the golf course!

Finally a Post from Grandma

2008-05-21T17:02:00.004-06:00

I thought that maybe Grandma should contribute some thoughts to our Blog. Grampa has been so diligent in updating you on all the comings and goings in our lives, but I thought that Grandma's view of things might give a slightly different perspective.

Yes, it has been quite a ride this year with the cancer diagnosis. It was such a shock when the doctor told me, as though he was reading a script that was not meant to be a part of our lives. However, realizing the seriousness of the situation, with the help of our loving family and friends we have made it this far without any major consequences. It is amazing the love that I have received from my dear family, friends, co-workers, and customers. I love you all !!!

I did initially take about 2 months off of work (to recover from the surgeries), but am really glad that I have the opportunity to continue to work during my treatment. I'm really not up to par with my productivity, but I am holding my own and it helps to keep my mind off of my health problems. The side effects from my chemo have been minimal, and just as they told me. Fatigue, minor nausea, and the tingling in hands, feet, and mouth from cold. It feels alot like it does when your foot falls asleep and you get pins and needles. I'm really glad that I am having my treatments during the warmer months. The doctor told me that I should not loose my hair with this type of chemo, however, it seems to be thinning quite a bit this week with lots of hair in the tub, sink, brush, and all over the floor. If I do loose it, no problem, I will just have the chance to try out some new styles with wigs. Grampa has been so supportive finding articles and helpful information on the web that make things easier for me.

Speaking of Grampa, we had such an awesome time in Cancun, as you have seen from the pictures and videos that he posted. He didn't mention our Mexican cadillac which is much like a bicycle with a large basket on the front to carry the passengers. I felt so sorry for our driver, he had quite a load with both of us in his basket, but he kept grinning, but I'm sure he was thinking that the Americans needed to eat less. We are really excited about going to Scotland as you can probably see from this blog. It will be very different from the tropical trips we have taken, but I think it will be one of the best trips yet.

Most of you reading this, already know about Kelly's (Mac's wife) trip to Africa. She is there to volunteer in a village where she is the only volunteer. She is working with the orphan school to teach aids awareness. We have gotten some great emails from her and we are so excited for her to have this experience. We love you, Kelly!! Take care, and come home soon.

Love,
Grandma Brown

2008-05-19T09:55:00.005-06:00

Sunday's magnificent show from our back deck. I absolutely love Montana sunsets! Ya gotta click on this one!

Chris had a pretty good weekend. Her sensitivity to cold seems alot more acute this time, and her nausea was more prevalent, we also both felt like we were coming down with colds on Sat. night and Sunday. All in all though, it was an OK weekend. We finally picked out the outdoor table and chairs for the back deck and had dinner with Charlie & Candi and the boys out on the deck with the golfers.

Two down, Ten to go!

2008-05-15T18:17:00.002-06:00

Candi, Chris, and Gini on Mothers Day
.

Chris had her second chemotherapy infusion today. She goes into the oncology clinic in the morning to give a sample of her blood. Then, if everything is alright, she comes back in the afternoon where they mix the poisons up fresh and infuse her for about three hours. After that she wears a pump that continues the infusion for the next forty-eight hours. Sometime on Saturday, the pump will beep and I will have to disconnect it from the port that was installed under her skin in her shoulder. I just talked with her and she's feeling fine but the sensitivity to cold is coming back quickly. We'll all be so glad when this is behind us.

Music? Who Knew?

2008-05-14T08:50:00.003-06:00

Our blogger daughter Gini is my mentor for all things blog. Yesterday she showed me how to pick out music and get it to our site. What fun! I was looking for some bagpipes to go along with the "going to Scotland" theme when I found the song "Amazing Grace". Is there an artist out there who hasn't done that song? I found hundreds of arrangements (even rap!) I love this hymn so I started picking out renditions I liked for the blog and had to stop after 34. I have since narrowed it down some, so go ahead and listen. They are all wonderful and the one in Cherokee is very interesting. Thanks Gini

Just a couple more from Cancun '08

2008-05-11T18:36:00.006-06:00

On top of the pyramid in the city of Coba (pronounced Cobe-Ha)

Exploring the Yucatan Jungle with my babe. Hey, somebody's got to do it!

THINGS WE'VE LEARNED ABOUT CANCER

2008-05-10T13:14:00.006-06:00

One of the first things we learned was not to take symptoms for granted.
There was no pain or discomfort. Just some occasional blood in the stool that didn't seem to be that serious. It got a little worse and became more common than not. A colonoscopy was past-due. A tumor was slowly growing at the junction of the rectum and sigmoid parts of the colon and had probably been there for about 5 years. Had we gotten to it sooner, we wouldn't have needed the chemotherapy.
Another eye-opener was that given the stage of the tumor, after the surgery, Christine has a 50/50 chance of recovery without the chemo and an 80% chance of recovery with it. (A no-brainer for us)
We have also started to change our eating habits and lifestyle to reflect a new healthier commitment to each other. We are taking in a much higher fiber content than before, and have started including flax seed into our diet on a daily basis. The research on flax is genuine and easily found. Everyone reading this should jump on this wagon right now! It's easy to do, there are breakfast cereals and breads and capsules etc. Start now!

Just some of the photos I like the best!

2008-05-08T10:05:00.024-06:00

Above: My favorite portrait of Christine.
Below: Ronnie Brown and Christine Lloyd at age 7-8

Uncle Zachary and Grandma Brown in late summer of 2007, enjoying the sunset.

Daughter Gini Erickson and Granddaughter Lillia.

Adian Brown having fun at Grandma and Grampa Brown's house.

Grandma and Grampa Brown at the Grand Canyon on the way home from Mac and Kelly's wedding. I was unprepared for how magnificent it could be!

Charlie Brown is past the point of no return

This is Isabel Erickson going to her first prom! No, she was a very beautiful flower girl at her Uncle Mac and Aunt Kelly's Wedding.

This is my favorite pic of Evan Erickson. It was taken in Mesa Arizona at Mac & Kelly's Wedding

Jason Erickson, Opps! I mean "El Baldy", Showing us that even though he's well past his prime, He can still take Isabel. (Wait till the rematch next year!)

Great Grandma Jeanie and Maggie Jones taken in February 2008.

Grandma Brown, Clara, Eden, and Jeanette Jones on Easter Sunday 2007. Their Daddy and Momma were at the hostpital welcoming new little sister, ElenorMargaret Jones, into the world. I absolutely love this pic! (left click on the pic for full size )

An introduction to our clan

2008-05-07T13:58:00.015-06:00

Our only Great Grandparent left; Jeanette Bennett Brown Adams and still going strong at 81

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Our grandkids can beat up your grandkids any day of the week and twice on Sunday! (we're still working with them on that keeping the Sabbath holy thing)

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Chris and her girls Candi Brown, Robyn Jones, Kelly Brown, and Gini Erickson. (The girls all hate this picture but Grandma and Grampa love it. )

Liberty Brown showing the surf in Cancun who's boss

Evan Erickson, keeping his Uncle Pip out of trouble

Here is Zachary, our number 2 son, and doing pretty good right now Here is Great Grandma Jeanie with grandson and new grand daughter, Mac and Kelly (Kelly is in Africa right now as part of her major, teaching aids awareness at an orphanage in Guana, she'll be gone for a month)

This wonderful family is Charlie, Candi, Liam, and Adian (listed by age , not good looks)and Adian really likes his new brown shirt.

Here is the Erickson branch of the Brown Clan. Front row is Lillia, Will (Brownie), and Evan. Middle row is Isabel, Gini, and Jason. And last row is our oldest grandchild Bennett (but we just call him Smiley)

Here is Lope with Robyn and the rest of the Jones girls; Eden, Clara, and Maggie on the front row, and Jeanette Ruth standing up so tall in the back (Does Maggie look worried to you?)

This shot was taken last summer, but is not complete. We are missing Lope and Jason! (notice we are all wearing brown-Gini's idea- color coding must be an Idaho thing)

More from Cancun '08

2008-05-07T09:29:00.002-06:00

Just after sunrise in Cancun

Lib being cool in the pool

Beth an Liberty having sushi at he hotel later that evening.

The Observatory in Coba

Liberty & Beth on the way to the cenote'

Indiana Brown coming down off the temple pyramid in Coba

In the Mayan ruins of Coba (pronounced Cobe-Ah)

Chris out by the pools in front of the beach.

A Shocking Wakeup Call !

2008-05-06T19:14:00.000-06:00

On January 24th 2008, Christine was diagnosed with colon-rectal cancer.

Thanks to Tess, (my wonderful sister in law) we were quickly hooked up with the Huntsman Cancer Institute in SLC Utah. They took out 10 inches of Chris' colon and 26 of her lymph nodes. Unfortunately, 4 of those nodes tested positive for the malignancy, so chemotherapy was definitely indicated.

Our oncologist in Billings wanted to start the chemo treatments as soon as possible so he sent us back to SLC so Chris could have a "port" inserted under her skin for the chemo infusions.

Unfortunately, before Chris could begin chemo treatments she started going "yellow". She was severely jaundiced and getting worse by the day and they couldn't start chemo with her bilirubin count going through the roof. At first, they thought it was hepatitis but that was ruled out. Then they began testing her for everything they could think of and nothing showed up. All this time Chris was going crazy. She was severely fatigued and suffering from constant chills, but worst of all was the itching! It wasn't on the surface of her skin, it was underneath, and it was all over her body. She was scratching all day and all night till she was bleeding and it didn't stop the itch!

Finally she began to improve on her own as her bilirubin count slowly came back to normal, and this last week she was able to have her first chemotherapy treatment.

She's doing really well. The main side effect thus far is that she can no longer stand cold food or drink in her throat.