Saturday, June 11, 2011

Remembing Grandpa Collier -- a Memorial Service

This event took place on the lawn of his own home. The rain that was expected, stayed up in the clouds. It was a beautiful day for friends and family to gather and remember Randy's father who passed away last December.

The kids and I provided prelude music --
A great opportunity for Michael to dust off his cello

And for David to pull out Papa Slaughter's clarinet.


Randy and his siblings shared memories and thoughts about their father.

Sarah - Dad was "ready" and not afraid to move on.
Randy - When life throws you down, jump right back up into the saddle.
Tim - Dad is still with us and watching out for us.
Denny - Dad was a good man and offered sound advice.



Emily, accompanied by our family string quartet, sang "Homeward Bound" a fitting song about pastures and going home. (Grandpa loved farming.)

A printed and bound memory book, compiled by Jenni, and containing letters and pictures from children, grandchildren, and spouses, was presented to Grandma.


Cookies were made by granddaughters and other relatives.


Dollie and her four children.


Cousins became reacquainted. We hadn't seen Alison (far right) for over 10 years.

Jenni met Aaron Joseph for the first time this weekend.







Boys will be Boys!






Playing "Hide and Seek" -- Evylee's favorite game.

Our family with Grandma
(missing five great-grandchildren)

Extended Family

What a wonderful day to reminisce and feel the warmth of family togetherness.

Wednesday, June 8, 2011

We have a Special Bond

Whenever little Ethan and I are together,
I see this...
or this...
or this...
until I do THIS.

I'm not sure why he loves being with me so much. Maybe its 'cause I'm kind of soft and squishy. I don't mind one bit. Someday soon, he will likely outgrow this and become big, strong, and independent. I want him to know -- even when he is way too big to climb up on my lap, I will still be there for him.

But for now, Ethan.... Let's cuddle.

Sunday, June 5, 2011

A Name and a Blessing

Today our newest grandchild, Aaron Joseph Fairbank, received his name and a blessing.



In the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints a baby blessing is neither an infant baptism or simply a christening prayer. When a baby is just a few weeks old, a holder of the Melchizedek Priesthood, in this case and in most cases, the baby's father, pronounces a blessing as dictated by the Holy Spirit stating gifts, promises, and instructions concerning the baby's future.


With the giving of his name, Aaron Joseph is now identified on the records of the Church as part of an eternal family unit.

Emily and A.J. with a little Audrey on the side.

Time for some Gammie magic

I suppose THIS will do.