Three months

It has been three months since Dad died. It seems like an eternity ago. There have been so many decisions to make, problems to face, grief to bear. I have learned the following truths:

1. I love him and will always love him

2. I love my children and grandchildren. I appreciate their love and support

3. There is a life after this life. I have received a confirmation of this.

4. There are wonderful, caring people all around who have reached out to me and our family

5. I have received the strength to carry on from a loving Heavenly Father who knows the pain I am feeling and has wrapped His arms around me through those that touch my life.

6. Although there has been alot of pain, there has also been joy in discovering these truths.

Those Were The Days

This is seriously one of the funniest things I have ever seen. Believe it or not, this is really how life was in the 1950's for the great American Housewife. I think Dad would LOVE to be treated like this.


The Good Wife's Guide
From Housekeeping Monthly, 13 May, 1955.


• Have dinner ready. Plan ahead, even the night before, to have a delicious meal ready on time for his return. This is a way of letting him know that you have be thinking about him and are concerned about his needs. Most men are hungry when they get home and the prospect of a good meal is part of the warm welcome needed.
• Prepare yourself. Take 15 minutes to rest so you'll be refreshed when he arrives. Touch up your make-up, put a ribbon in your hair and be fresh-looking. He has just been with a lot of work-weary people.
• Be a little gay and a little more interesting for him. His boring day may need a lift and one of your duties is to provide it.
• Clear away the clutter. Make one last trip through the main part of the house just before your husband arrives. Run a dustcloth over the tables.
• During the cooler months of the year you should prepare and light a fire for him to unwind by. Your husband will feel he has reached a haven of rest and order, and it will give you a lift too. After all, catering to his comfort will provide you with immense personal satisfaction.
• Minimize all noise. At the time of his arrival, eliminate all noise of the washer, dryer or vacuum. Encourage the children to be quiet.
• Be happy to see him.
• Greet him with a warm smile and show sincerity in your desire to please him.
• Listen to him. You may have a dozen important things to tell him, but the moment of his arrival is not the time. Let him talk first - remember, his topics of conversation are more important than yours.
• Don't greet him with complaints and problems.
• Don't complain if he's late for dinner or even if he stays out all night. Count this as minor compared to what he might have gone through at work.
• Make him comfortable. Have him lean back in a comfortable chair or lie him down in the bedroom. Have a cool or warm drink ready for him.
• Arrange his pillow and offer to take off his shoes. Speak in a low, soothing and pleasant voice.
• Don't ask him questions about his actions or question his judgment or integrity. Remember, he is the master of the house and as such will always exercise his will with fairness and truthfulness. You have no right to question him.
• A good wife always knows her place.

Eyes

Imagine a world without vision!!! It seems colorless and dark everywhere. It is very difficult, isn’t it? Eyes are regarded as the mirror images of our personality. They reflect our nature and draw different expressions for communicating with others. They help us in viewing the beautiful nature created by God and add a good meaning to our life.
We try to make our eyes look beautiful and attractive to others by using various eye products like eye liners, eye shadows and various others to enhance the beauty of our eyes.
My recent vision problems have made me realize the importance of eye sight. Since January I have had three major eye surgeries, and two other eye procedures to try to restore my vision.
It all started with cataracts in January. My vision was slowly getting worse, but I thought the lasik surgery I had 10 years ago was just changing. Unfortunately, I let it go too long, and the cataracts were pretty bad by the time I visited the eye doctor. The recoverly seemed pretty normal, but then I started getting floaters and flashing lights in my left eye. A quick visit to the eye doctor confirmed that I had experienced a retinal detachment.
Retinal detachment is a separation of the retina from its attachments to the underlying tissue within the eye. Most retinal detachments are a result of a retinal break, hole, or tear. These retinal breaks may occur when the vitreous gel pulls loose or separates from its attachment to the retina, usually in the peripheral parts of the retina. The vitreous is a clear gel that fills two-thirds of the inside of the eye and occupies the space in front of the retina. As the vitreous gel pulls loose, it will sometimes exert traction on the retina, and if the retina is weak, the retina will tear. The risk of retinal detachment increases with cataract surgery.
Vitrectomy is the surgical removal of the vitreous gel from the middle of the eye . It may be done when there is a retinal detachment, since removing the vitreous gel gives your eye doctor (ophthalmologist) better access to the back of the eye. The vitreous gel may also be removed if blood in the vitreous gel (vitreous hemorrhage) does not clear on its own.
During a vitrectomy, the surgeon inserts small instruments into the eye, cuts the vitreous gel, and suctions it out. After removing the vitreous gel, the surgeon may treat the retina with a laser (photocoagulation), cut or remove fibrous or scar tissue from the retina, flatten areas where the retina has become detached, or repair tears or holes in the retina or macula
A Many people develop separation of the vitreous from the retina as they get older. However, only a small percentage of these vitreous separations result in retinal tears.
Once the retina has torn, liquid from the vitreous gel can then pass through the tear and accumulate behind the retina. The buildup of fluid behind the retina is what separates (detaches) the retina from the back of the eye. As more of the liquid vitreous collects behind the retina, the extent of the retinal detachment can progress and involve the entire retina, leading to a total retinal detachment. A retinal detachment almost always affects only one eye at a time. The second eye, however, must be checked thoroughly for any signs of predisposing factors that may lead to detachment in the future.
Flashing lights and floaters may be the initial symptoms of a retinal detachment or of a retinal tear that precedes the detachment itself. Anyone who is beginning to experience these symptoms should see an eye doctor.

I'm so grateful that athese problems are behind me. My vision is fairly normal now.
I have gained a huge appreciation for my eyes and my vision; something you don't think about until it is taken away.

Beauty Secrets

Did you know that it's Beautiful Women Month? Below is a wonderful poem Audrey Hepburn wrote when asked to share her "beauty tips." It was read at her funeral years later.

For attractive lips, speak words of kindness.
For lovely eyes, seek out the good in people.
For a slim figure, share your food with the hungry.
For beautiful hair, let a child run his/her fingers through it once a day.
For poise, walk with the knowledge that you never walk alone.
People, even more than things, have to be restored, renewed, revived, reclaimed, and redeemed; never throw out anyone.
Remember, if you ever need a helping hand, you will find one at the end of each of your arms.
As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands; one for helping yourself, and the other for helping others.

Happy Easter

All I need to know I learned from the Easter Bunny!

• Don't put all your eggs in one basket




• Everyone needs a friend who is all ears.




• All work and no play can make you a basket case.




• Everyone is entitled to a bad hare day.




• Let happy thoughts multiplay like rabbits.




• Keep your paws off of other people's jelly beans.




• Good things come in small, sugar coated packages.




• The grass is always greener in someone else's basket.




• To show your true colors, you have to come out of the shell.

HAPPY EASTER!

20 Ways to Make a Good Marriage Great

This was first published by Richard W. Linton in 1983, but I think the advise is timeless, especially on Valentines Day.

1. Morning and Evening Prayer … to say thanks, to ask for help in your marriage and family, to worship together.

2. A Weekly Planning Meeting … to discuss the calendar, talk over needs and problems, decide priorities and next steps.

3. A Daily Phone Call or Personal Conversation … to say “I love you,” to touch base, to discuss the day, to show you care.

4. A Weekly Date … to a favorite park, a concert, the library, the gym; or staying home for a candlelight dinner, a game, or a mutual hobby.

5. Patience Regardless … of missed meals, tardiness, forgotten favors, a thoughtless remark, impatience.

6. Daily Service … helping with house or yard work, mending a piece of clothing, taking a turn with the sick baby, fixing a favorite meal. (Write it down. Do it!)

7. A Budget … to tie down income and expenses, help set financial goals, and give you control over your finances.

8. Listening … not only to what is said, but also to what is meant.

9. Regular Attendance … at church—and where possible—the temple.

10. Daily Scripture Reading … to learn the gospel, to receive inspiration for yourself and your marriage, to become more like Jesus.

11. Working Together … caring for a garden, painting a bedroom, washing the car, scrubbing floors, building a piece of furniture, writing a poem together, team teaching a class.

12. Forgiving Each Other … always learning from each other, trying a different way, being the first to make peace.

13. Courtesies … like saying please and thank you, not interrupting or belittling, not doing all the talking, continuing the niceties of courtship.

14. Soft and Kind Words … of tenderness, compassion, empathy.

15. Learning Together by … reading to each other, discussing ideas, taking a class.

16. Respecting … opinions, ideas, privacy.

17. Supporting Your Spouse’s … church service and righteous goals.

18. Caring for Your Spouse’s Family by … enjoying their company, praying for them, serving them, overlooking differences.

19. Occasional Gifts … such as a note, a needed item—but mostly gifts of time and self.

20. Loving with All Your Heart. “Thou shalt love thy wife [thy husband] with all thy heart, and shalt cleave unto her [him] and none else.” (D&C 42:22.)

This is one of my favorite pictures of Grandma and Grandpa Stewart. It really isn't a great picture. I'm sure Grandma hates it, but I love that they are still holding hands after almost 60 years together.

Obama Health Care Plan

The Allergists voted to scratch it, but the dermatologists advised not to make any rash moves.

The Gastroenterologists had sort of a gut feeling about it but the Neurologists thought the Administration had a lot of nerve.

The Obstetricians felt they were all laboring under a misconception.

Ophthalmologists considered the idea shortsighted..Pathologists yelled, "Over my dead body!" while the Pediatricians said, 'Oh,Grow up!'

The Psychiatrists thought the whole idea was madness, while the Radiologists could see right through it.

Surgeons decided to wash their hands of the whole thing.

The Internists thought it was a bitter pill to swallow, and the Plastic Surgeons said, "This puts a whole new face on the matter."

The Podiatrists thought it was a step forward, but the Urologists were pissed off at the whole idea.

The Anesthesiologists thought the whole idea was a gas and the Cardiologists didn't have the heart to say no.

In the end, the Proctologists won out, leaving the entire decision up to the bum holes in Washington.

***Note: I cannot take credit for this... I found it on the internet, but it was funny so I thought I'd share.

Laundry Soap and Dishwasher Detergent

Everyone is going nuts over SOAP NUTS! Soap nuts are the fruit of the Chinese Soap Berry
Tree found in the Himalayan Mountains. They are harvested and dried in the sun. The berries are cracked open and a large seed is removed. It's the outer shell that contains large amounts of a natural soap called saponin. All soap nuts are not the same. Sapindus Mukorossi Soap Nuts are the largest of all varieties and have the highest saponin content.
The 10 Ten Benefits of Soap Nuts:
1. Totally organic, non toxic and chemical free
2. Costs half as much as the national brands
3. Non polluting. Actually cleans gray water.
4. Completely biodegradable packaging.
5. Weighs far less than liquids and easier to use
6. Antimicrobial and insecticidal
7. Hypoallergenic. Ideal for sensitive skin.
8. Removes odors--doesn't cover them up
9. Softens clothes better than fabric softeners
10. Free of carcinogens
This is an excerpt from the internet:
"I recently purchased some Soap Nuts based on a recommendation I received from my best friend. She just raved about them until I agreed to buy some. I did my usual thorough job of shopping and found a highly rated company on eBay named Green Virgin Products and they also have the best price. I purchased a 1 kilo bag which included 3 wash bags. You put about 5 soap nuts in the drawstring wash bag and just throw it in with your clothes. I have an HE front loader so you can't use the dispenser, just toss it in. When I removed the first load from the dryer I could not believe it. Everything was clean and fresh smelling and so soft and fluffy. There was no real smell at all, just clean. I was amazed and instantly called my friend to tell here how excited I was about soap nuts. From what I learned on the Green Virgin Products Web Site laundry detergents, fabric softeners and dryer sheets all contain highly toxic chemicals that can cause cancer and many horrible diseases. Soap nuts are actually berries that grow on trees and then dried in the sun. No chemicals of any kind are added. They are also totally Green. They are sold in a cloth sack instead of a plastic bottle. And best of all they cost a lot less than the toxic chemicals I had been buying. There is a lot more information at their web site but I want to mention one more thing. The soap nuts can be reused several times. Their web site says 4-7 loads but I get about 8 loads with my front loader. I actually feel better since I started using soap nuts, my sinuses have cleared up in a big way. One of the symptoms of the chemicals used in laundry detergent is sinusitis. Their web site has links to see the chemicals and the health risks associated with that chemical. It is really scary reading and I feel better not being exposed to such toxic chemicals. I have to say buying soap nuts was a turning point in my life. I am now more aware of the chemicals that surround us all on a daily basis and realize that we have to be careful of not just what we eat, but also what we put on our bodies as far as chemicals go."

You can also make your own Laundry Soap and Dishwasher Detergent. These are environmentally friendly, too.

Ingredients for Homemade Laundry Soap

Washing Soda—This stuff has been around forever. It is a natural substance, made from salt and limestone. Scientifically it is known as sodium carbonate. It cuts grease on anything and can be used for many (if not most) of the cleaning projects in your home. Arm and Hammer puts it out in the United States. I have found it at Harmon’s $2.99 for 55 ounces and at Ace Hardware.

Borax—Borax occurs naturally in the environment and can be mined as well as created in a lab. It is toxic in concentrated amounts, and you should keep it out of the reach of children. You can find it by the laundry detergent; Borateem is one brand, $4.69 for 76 ounces.

Kosher Salt—Kosher salt is a pure salt.

Citric acid—You can buy food grade citric acid like Fruit Fresh but this can be expensive. I have found it at Baker’s Cash and Carry and Orson Gygi, 1 pound for $5.89.

Homemade Laundry Soap Recipe:

1 cup washing soda
1 cup borax
½ cup salt
½ cup citric acid

Mix together and store tightly covered in a Mason Jar.
Some sites say to add white vinegar to the rinse dispenser for the best results, check your appliance instructions before doing this. Use 1 Tablespoon per load--the cost is $.05!

Ingredients for Homemade Powdered Laundry Detergent
Washing Soda (see above)
Borax (see above)
Laundry Bar Soap – Fels Naptha heavy duty laundry bar soap is recommended. You can find in the laundry aisle (usually top shelf) and the cost is about $1.60 per bar. To grate finely I used a “microplane zester/grater” and the result was about 3 cups of soap, one website said 1 bar was equal to about 1 cup grated, so in your recipe you may want to adjust the amount of grated soap to suit your needs.

Powdered Laundry Detergent Recipe:

2 cups finely grated soap
1 cup washing soda
1 cup borax

Mix well and store in an airtight plastic container. Use 2 tablespoons per full load--the cost is $.06! Works great in High Efficiency Washers.

Hey, give it a try!

Happy Thanksgiving!

T'was the night of Thanksgiving, but I just couldn't sleep.
I tried counting backwards; I tried counting sheep.
The leftovers beckoned--the dark meat and white.
But I fought the temptation with all of my might.
Tossing and turning with anticipation,
the thought of a snack became infatuation.
So I raced to the kitchen, flung open the door,
and gazed at the fridge full of "Goodies Galore".
I gobbled up turkey and buttered potatoes,

pickles and carrots, beans and tomatoes.

I felt myself swelling so plump and so round,
Til' all of a sudden, I rose off the ground
I crashed through the celing, floating into the sky,
With a mouthful of pudding and a handful of pie.
But I managed to yell, as I soared past the trees,
HAPPY EATING TO ALL. . . PASS THE CRANBERRIES, PLEASE!

May your stuffing be tasty, may your turkey be plump.

May your potatoes 'n gravy have 'nary a lump.
May your yams be delicious, may your pies take the prize.
May your Thanksgiving Dinner stay off of your thighs!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

After the evening was over, Dad and I sat down to reflect on a wonderful day, and realized we hadn't taken a single picture!! I was horrified. So I found this lovely thanksgiving family picture courtesy of the Colsen family, circa November 23, 1950. I think we all look wonderful.

What happened to summer?

I looked at the calendar today, as I do every day. I realized it is no longer summer. WHAT? No more boating, swimsuits, lounging on the beach, white jeans, driving to work with the sun coming up. Oh, summer I am going to miss you.

I also realized that I haven't had a post since JUNE!! What? What happened to my solemn pledge to blog on a regular basis? I guess just too much lounging around this summer.

Stay tuned for posts to come.

Happy Anniversary

Dad made me this awesome card for our Anniversary this year.
Isn't it so sweet? What a great guy I have. I am so blessed.
Love ya

Be kinder than necessary,

for everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle.

Live simply,

Love generously,

Care deeply,

Speak kindly,

and pray continually.

Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass---

It's about learning to dance in the rain.

Natalee is twelve!

Natalee Irene Wagner

June 20, 1998

Natalee is one of the most energetic, creative and talented kids I know. She is a gifted artist as well as talented musically and physically. She excells at everything she tries. She is very good with kids and can entertain them for hours. She will be able to do anything she sets her mind to.

Happy Birthday, twelve year old!

Our Olivia

Olivia Ann Starnes

June 5, 2003

Olivia just celebrated her seventh birthday! What a sweet, sensitive girl. We love her big blue eyes, long eyelashes and gorgeous blonde hair. Besides being beautiful to look at, she is just as beautiful inside. She is always concerned about others and is kind and loving.

We love you, Liv.

Des Moines University Commencement 2010

Dad and I were able to attend Des Moines University 110th Annual Commencement Ceremony. The College of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery awarded the Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (D.P.M.) degree to 52 graduates. One of these graduates was Colby H. Frost. Colby has dedicated many years of studying, hard work and sacrifice to earn this degree. We are so proud of him and Shauni.

Colby's typical study session for the past 10 years.

The Recessional after the hooding of the Doctoral Graduates.

Colby looks like he might smile.

Colby with his Mom and Dad, Susan and Ron Frost.

Valeri, Abbi, Shauni, Colby, Carter, Ammon and Scott.

The Frosts and Campbells. Colby and Jason have been friends since grade school. They have been through elementary, junior high, high school, undergraduate and graduate school together. Now they are both headed to Temple, Texas for residency. They both have three kids, born within months of each other.

Notice the foot prints of his first three patients, Ammon, Carter and Abbi.

Happy Birthday Colby!

We are so happy that you are part of our family. You are an awesome husband, father and great all around guy. You are hard working, intelligent and way cool. We can always count on a great photo shoot when you are in the picture. These are some of our favorites.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, Colby. WE LOVE YOU!

Parakeet Portraits

Daniel and Natalie have now added Parakeet Portraits to their portfolio. These perfectly professional Parakeet Portraits are now available to the public. In addition to Parakeet Portraits, natalie hart photography also offers pristine prints of any pet in predictable and peculiar poses.

Portraits can also be procured of parakeets, pugs, porcupines, pigs, poodles, pandas, ponies, panthers, pythons, platypus, porpoises, penguins, pterodactyls, peacocks, partridges (in a pear tree), pelicans, pikes, puffins, pink flamingos, pumas, possums, pomeranians, peregrine falcons, polliwogs, prairie dogs, and of course, people.

Contact Daniel Stewart and Natalie Hart

nataliehartphotography.com

nataliehartphotography@gmail.com

801-870-3826

Happy 5th Anniversary, Leslee and Kody