Following the Dream

Home to Missouri

2010-04-26T05:43:00.000-07:00

I am a little late posting to the blog but last week was busy with the return trip to Little Rock and work. We enjoyed a wonderful trip home last week to celebrate Mom's 7oth Birthday.

We were able to attend church and have dinner with our dear friends Donna and Rodger...it is always good to get together and laugh.

Sunday evening we celebrated Mom's Birthday with family and friends at Mom and Dad's. Steve and Dennis lit 70 candles on her cake...it was impressive.

Monday Max got to visit Miss. Brandie while Mom and I enjoyed a pedicure...Max has to be next to Steve but he liked the attention from Mollie while she visited.

Monday evening before starting home Jan and Red treated us to a wonderful dinner at Lambert's...great food and wonderful family time. Mike was able to join us for
the evening...good thing you can take home what you don't eat.

Connie and Clay visit from Idaho

2010-04-07T18:10:00.001-07:00

Connie and Clay (Steve's sister and bother-in-law) traveled from Idaho to the mid west for a visit. Though they had some weather issues getting here the weather was warm and sunny after their arrival. Steve had not seen Connie since 1993...what a wonderful reunion.

Max loved Connie and Clay (they are both dog people) the first evening it was difficult to capture Clay and Max together. Max believed thinks that he is a lap dog.

We took them to "Shorty Smalls" for dinner after arriving...it was good to catch up over great food.

Tuesday Morning we were off to the "Big Dam Bridge" to walk the dogs.

Max loves walking...Rusty Wayne and Rosie did not know what to think about the bridge.

Finally, a picture of Max and Clay.

Always hate good-bye. Steve and Connie promised each other that they would not it be years before they visit again.

March Weather

2010-03-10T13:07:00.000-08:00

Steve, Max and I have been enjoying the March weather here in Little Rock. We love the temperature in the 60s and 70s during the day and the 40s and 50s at night. Max jumps in the creek near the KOA whenever Steve lets him get close and has learned to jump onto the bed.

Look How Max Has Grown

2010-01-19T16:09:00.000-08:00

Max is growing and living the dream with us in Little Rock, AR. He loves chewing on shoe strings and going for walks. with Steve and I. He is the most amazing dog...he has been sleeping all night since the first of January. He loves to play and enjoys his chew toys.

He loves nap time and takes his half of the bed out of the middle and I believe that he will always be "king of the recliner".

Angel visited "The Old Mill" with her Dad

2010-01-03T14:16:00.000-08:00

Angel came to Little Rock for some down time with her Dad and Max. They visited "The Old Mill" on Saturday before a little shopping adventure at the McCain Mall.

Angel has grown into a lovely young women...and she is starting her second semester in nursing school.

Bringing in the New Year with family!

2010-01-03T13:47:00.000-08:00

Steve's Mom and Dad traveled to Little Rock for a visit before the New Year. We visited the "Big Dam Bridge' and Red told of fishing in the Arkansas River when he was young.

Since it was far to cold to fish we settled on "Cock of the Walk" for our catfish dinner.

After dinner we drove past the Capital Building to see the lights...how many lights does it take to light up the Capital.

We visited "The Old Mill" with Jan and Red...for those that are "Gone with the Wind" buffs "The Old Mill" is featured in the opening scenes of the movie.

I had to take pictures of the flowers...as cold as it has been!!

Last stop was the covered bridge at Burns Park.

Adoption Complete

2009-12-23T18:34:00.000-08:00

Max Butler has arrived at the Butler household.

We have spent the last two days getting to know each other and he loves exploring the RV.

He loves chewing on shoestrings...I can see some lost shoes in my future.

Hunter's Birthday

2009-12-17T09:59:00.001-08:00

While home we were able to celebrate Hunter's 7th Birthday...hard to believe that he is 7.

Addition to the Family!!

2009-12-15T12:02:00.000-08:00

It is official Max Butler will become a part of our family 12/22/09.

Enjoying Fall Weather in Little Rock, AR

2009-11-05T06:47:00.000-08:00

Steve and I enjoyed the day at Burns Park in North Little Rock, AR yesterday. First stop was the

pre-civil war cabin...which Steve just had to know how they put the logs together.

Next stop was the covered bridge and the hiking trails around it.

God has blessed us greatly by bringing us together.

The "River Trail" follows the Arkansas River for miles.

Biosphere 2

2009-09-23T20:08:00.000-07:00

Just like an episode from Discovery Channel. Steve and I spent most of today at Biosphere 2. For those of you that do not remember Biosphere 2 is where 4 women and 4 men lock themselves in a three-acre green house in the Arizona desert for two years, completely cut off from the outside world. Nothing in or out - no food, no water, not even air. They produced everything they needed to survive from their miniature rain forest, Savannah, desert, marsh, ocean and farm. Read more about the adventure in The Human Experiment: Two Years and Twenty Minutes Inside Biosphere 2, by Jane Poynter

A view of their miniature ocean and beach.

The desert.

The rain forest...Steve and I thought it would be wonderful to have our picture taken in the rain forest...never dreaming that you would not be able to see us.

Road Trip

2009-09-14T18:00:00.001-07:00

Five Days off equals a road trip! Steve and I left Tucson Thursday morning with San Diego as our destination.

First Stop was the Territorial Prison at Yuma, AZ.

The Prison housed 3069 prisoners from 1876 to 1909.

Steve had to see just "how much space" was in a cell.

Second stop was San Diego Bay...our hotel was located on Harbor Drive and this was our view of the Bay.

We began exploring the Bay...Steve couldn't wait to see the USS Midway.

Thursday evening included dinner on the Bay watching this beautiful sunset.

Friday morning we set out to explore Seaport Village...this sculpture is located near the USS Midway at Tuna Harbor Park. This 25 foot sculpture captures the black and white image of a sailor kissing a young nurse in Time Square on August 14, 1945.

Steve loved to just sit by the water and enjoy the breeze. Also, he loved exploring at Captain's Cove...he is a pirate at heart.

Next stop was the National Salute to Bob Hope and the Military. The 16 bronze sculptures represent a typical Bob Hope Road Show.

As we continued to explore the Bay area Steve had to visit the Maritime Museum. First, was the HMS Surprise the movie "Master and Commander" was filmed on. Then we toured the USS Dolphin a diesel-electric submarine and Foxtrot B-39 a Soviet Attack Submarine.

Saturday morning we adventured to the Gaslamp Quarter...the Horton Grand Hotel is located in Gaslamp Quarter. The hotel was home to Wyatt Earp when he moved from Tombstone, AZ to San Diego, CA. The hotel was moved from Horton Plaza to it's present location at a cost of 12 million dollars.

The view of San Diego Bay from the Coronado Bridge as we traveled to Coronado Island.

Then we were off to Balboa Park...home of the largest pipe organ and the San Diego Zoo (the largest zoo in the United States).

Lastly, we enjoyed lunch in Little Italy.

What a wonderful 4 days with mild temperatures and cool breezes from the Bay. We are back in Tucson and getting ready for the work week.

Hiking Mt. Lemmon

2009-08-08T12:48:00.000-07:00

Steve and Dick spent Friday hiking on Mt. Lemmon at an elevation of 8000 feet. Mt. Lemmon is still recovering from the devastating Aspen Fire of 2003 that burned over 84,000 acres and 340 homes.

Horseback Riding in Sonoita, AZ

2009-07-25T19:15:00.000-07:00

Steve, Mollie and Darla enjoyed the Arizona Horseback Experience...which was a 3 hour horseback ride to 6000 feet.

Grand Canyon with Mollie and Darla

2009-07-25T17:49:00.000-07:00

Tuesday, July 21, 2009 we boarded the Grand Canyon Railway for scenic trip to the Grand Canyon.
The four of us enjoyed great food, conversation and relaxation on the 2 hour trip into the canyon.

When we arrived at the Grand Canyon we were taken on a bus tour of the South Rim...the pictures show a storm rolling in from the South,

Note the trail used by the mules that carry sightseers into the canyon...it is only 3-5 feet wide with a 3000 foot drop.

This is the third time that Steve and I have visited the canyon and it is always an amazing site to behold.

Arizona Fun

2009-07-23T21:10:00.001-07:00

Monday, July 20, 2009 we stopped at the Painted Desert...there was a storm rolling in and we received special instructions about "lightening storm safety" before we left the visitor center.

Steve taking a moment to admire the view at the Painted Desert.

Next stop was the Agate Bridge at the Petrified Forest.

Family Fun - July 4th

2009-07-06T18:52:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful July 4th!! Donna, Dennis, Ashley, Kayla and Hunter spent the weekend with Steve and I in Rolla, MO. Saturday was declared "Fun Day" by prince Hunter at which we did not do anything that wasn't fun. The day involved a buffet breakfast followed by Kokomo Joe's for

go-cart racing, mini golf and water wars.

Ashley was the victor at go-cart racing but Steve and Hunter prevailed at water wars.

Weekend with friends!

2009-06-27T19:36:00.000-07:00

We spent the a uneventful weekend with Donna and Rodger...visiting the Swiss Meat Company in Swiss, MO followed by wine tasting at the Phoenix and Wenwood Winery.

We are blessed to have such great friends!

Our Home Away From Home

2009-06-20T18:02:00.000-07:00

Steve and I picked up our RV today and after extensive inservice and "RV Driving 101" we have relocated to the Meramec Springs Country Store and RV Park near St. James, MO.

We both took turns driving from St. Louis to St. James and can not wait to make the drive to Arizona next month.

VBS on Safari 2009

2009-06-11T10:57:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Steve and I with the help of McAlisters Deli and the wonderful Mrs. Terry provided the meal for Vacation Bible School at church.

I had so much fun as everyone noticed the "watermelon whale", octopus made from hot dogs, gummie worms and gold fish. What blessings children are in the world...I can not imagine what life would be like if we were unable to view the world through a child's eye.

VBS is on Safari with the focus of the lesson last night on how "God Protects".

The group sang "Happy Birthday" to me which was sweet...made me feel young for a moment. Every class made "Thank You" notes for Steve and I...signed by every child attending VBS.

P.S. Thank you Mom for helping me transport all of the food and drinks...it never would have fit in my truck!

46 days to Tucson!

2009-06-01T18:10:00.000-07:00

Steve and I have started packing...our next assignment is going to take us back to Tucson, AZ. We will be staying at the same RV Resort...Rincon Country East RV Resort.

Mollie and Darla will be traveling with us
to Arizona for some much needed vacation time.
They want to visit the Grand Canyon, Tombstone and any everything of interest in between.

I start work at University Medical Center on July 27th...they are opening their new Emergency Department going from 30 beds to 80.

We know that we will be in Tucson until Halloween...where we go after that is in the Lord's hands.

Grace Helen Proffer was called to her Heavenly Home

2009-05-26T14:47:00.000-07:00

Grandma Proffer was called to her "Heavenly Home" on May 15, 2009. It has taken me a few days to update the blog regarding Grandma's passing because my computer also passed during the early hours of May 15th.

Keep Grandma Proffer in your prayers.

2009-05-11T10:11:00.000-07:00

I ask all of our friends and family to keep Grandma Proffer in your prayers. She remains on hospice at the Lutheran Home in Cape Girardeau, MO.

My Aunt Mary, Aunt Glenda and Mom have been taking turns to be at Grandma's bedside with a lot of grandchildren and great-grandchildren stopping in to visit this weekend for Mother's Day.

Grandma is a remarkable woman who with the help of my Grandfather raised 4 children on a carpenter's salary.

She has been a rock for Mollie and I since we moved back to Jackson in 1997. On Labor Day of 2000 a "for sale" sign was placed in the yard of the house two doors down from her...at 7:30 am she called my Mother to have me call and "see about buying the house...because Mollie needed a real home"...she hated us living in an apartment and throwing away our money. On September 20, 2000 Mollie and I moved into the house two doors down. Mollie would stop by Grandma's after school...Mollie always said she stopped "to check on Grandma" but I think it was because Grandma baked cherry pie on a regular basis.

December 2005 as I took Grandma home from a family Christmas Eve celebration she said to me, "Why don't you marry Steve...he is a good man and if you keep telling him NO he is going to stop asking." December 22, 2006 Steve and I were married. I will add that we are happier now than we were the day we got married.

Grandma has seen Mollie and I through good times and bad. She has offered encouragement either in words or just a simple pat on the hand.

When Steve and I left on our travel assignment she was fearful for our safety but wanted us to have a great time. She knew us both when we returned from Tucson, AZ looking up at Steve and joking about his weight.

Since we have been in Rolla, MO it has been a blessing to visit Grandma more often...even if to just return that encouraging pat on the hand. God please be with Grandma.

How much can we pack into a weekend?

2009-05-11T09:14:00.000-07:00

We spent the weekend at home! Saturday was a busy, busy day we started our day in Charleston, MO visiting with Steve's parents and cousin from Ohio. Steve took his Mother to Diebolds to pick out some bushes for her yard for Mother's day...it was fun watching the two of them together. As we traveled home from Charleston I received a text message "would I help Ashley with her make-up for Prom". To all of my friends I know that this is a perplexing statement...because when I or Mollie want help with make-up...we call Cheri!

However, Aunt Brenda did her part and at 4:30 pm we were doing make-up...Cheri you would be proud! Between leaving Charleston and getting ready for prom we stopped to see Grandma at the Lutheran Home in Cape Girardeau. She looks so frail and it seems to be such an effort for her to open her eyes.

Since Mom was spending the afternoon/evening at Grandma's bedside Steve and I took Kayla and Hunter with us for some pool time at the hotel before seeing Ashely off to Prom...she was so beautiful in her dress...and her make-up looked good if I do say so myself.

Then we picked up Mollie and Darla and we were off to dinner at Outback! Kayla & Hunter were starving by the time we arrived...imagine that.
What a wonderful dinner, great company...Mollie and Darla updated Steve and I about the events in their world, Kayla seemed to enjoy herself...she had a smile on her face throughout the evening. Hunter enjoyed everything but the mac and cheese...it wasn't "like Mom makes" so he refused to eat.

When Saturday came to an end we were all exhausted but what a wonderful day it had been.

Did I mention that between helping Ashley with make-up and "pool time" we made an appearance at a Graduation Celebration for Heather Kneir who graduated from Delta High School...congrats Heather.

Sunday we attended church...Steve and I miss being able to attend on a more regular basis...we attend different churches as we travel but they are not home. Following church Steve had some "honey do" items to fix at the house for Mollie and Darla. He never knew that he had so many women in his life making "honey do" list for him.

Lastly, before heading home we had a Mother's Day lunch with Mom...though she was glad to see everyone...I know that her thoughts were with her own Mother. As I mentioned in the title...How much can we pack into a weekend?

Taekwondo

2009-05-11T08:11:00.001-07:00

I am a little behind on posting to the blog but I will say that I did work 7 out of 8 days last week. I hope that everyone will forgive me for my procrastination.

May 2nd Mollie competed in a Taekwondo Tournament in St. Louis, MO...I was sleeping but Steve made the tip to watch her compete. She took first place in both forms and sparing.

She is very dedicated to Taekwondo...even with a hectic school schedule. Ted and DeRay keep her focused on the present as well as goals for the future! I have watched her friendship with Lisa grow over the past 2 years...I believe they not only have a great friendship but respect for one another.

Mollie is scheduled to test for her Red Belt on May 16th...she has come along way in 28 months.

April Weekend

2009-04-26T12:11:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful weekend! Friday, I went to Cape Girardeau for the day...had lunch with Cheri and Malaena at McAlister's...I always wanted to be as good a "Mom" as Cheri. Malaena is so smart and she has more personality than any child I have know.

After a pedicure and manicure with Brandie...everyone needs to be pampered on occasion. I was able to stop by the house in Jackson and hug Mollie before heading home.

Saturday morning we met our friends for a day of wine tasting and relaxing. First stop was the St. James Winery followed by Meramec Vineyards...where we not only sampled wine but had a wonderful lunch.

During the day as Donna and I stopped at the antique store that also housed a fudge shop...Steve and Rodger stopped at the Barber Shop. They both enjoyed hair cuts and stories.
The Barber opened his shop in St. James, MO in 1958 after coming home from the Korean War where he began his career cutting hair for the men in his unit for $1.00/haircut. The entire Barber Shop fell silent when Donna stepped in to take this picture.

The last winery of the day was "Wenwood Farm Winery" in Bland, MO. We spent the afternoon being educated about their wine as well as sampling the end result. We enjoyed a bottle of wine (or two) and listened to music in the spring sunshine.

We closed the evening at "Sybil's St James". I recommend this restaurant to anyone in the area...make sure to make reservations. The food was fabulous...it was the prefect end to a wonderful day with friends.

Family Weekend!

2009-04-13T09:18:00.000-07:00

What a weekend!

We were able to travel home to Jackson and see so many people in such a short time.

Steve's Mom and Dad are doing well and continue to clean up from the ice storm in February.

Hannah celebrated her second birthday while we were home...she is truly a little princess.

Hunter was a handsome man on Sunday with his tie.

Mollie even had time for a quick bite in her busy schedule.

Sunday we were off to Rolla to get ready for the up-coming work week. We never seemed to be amazed at how much we can accomplish or how many people we can visit with during a weekend home.

Butler Update

2009-03-31T12:45:00.001-07:00

Hard to believe that 5 months ago Steve and I were at the bottom of the Grand Canyon. Enjoying the beauty of the Colorado River and the Canyon itself.

Since December 29th we have been in Rolla, MO enjoying the beautiful mid west. Steve enjoys hiking and cave exploring here in Phelps County on his days off from the VA Medical Center.

We were able to travel home this past weekend for a "quick trip"...in 26 hours we visited with both parents, spent time in the pool with Hunter, went to dinner with Donna and Rodger, attended church with communion, visited with Donna, Ashley and Kayla after church had lunch at McAlister's and was able to see and hug Mollie and Steve got his hair cut all before we left to return home. No wonder we were tired when we got back to Rolla.

I must say we are blessed that this assignment is only 3 hours from home. We get to visit with family and friends before returning to our "work world" almost like a mini vacation every other week.

Our contracts here have been extended until June/July so Steve and I have begun dreaming about..."where do we go next"...Florida, Tennessee, Texas. We know that God will bless us with our next assignment just as he has over the past year.

Family & Friends Weekend

2009-03-16T03:49:00.000-07:00

Steve and I went home for the weekend! Friday night everyone gathered for dinner (even Darla joined us...you know she is part of the family) to talk about the week, catch up on the latest and make a game plan for Saturday morning.

Saturday morning at 0700 we (Steve and I, Hunter, Mom, Dad and Kayla) left for Charleston to help Jan and Red clean up from the ice storm last month. We were able to cut down three trees that had major damage from the ice.

Everyone worked hard during the day to make their backyard look more like a backyard. Jan cook a huge pot of stew to feed everyone and an amazing "Apple Cake", no small chore because by lunch time she had 9 of us to feed (Mike stopped by to lend a hand).

Hunter seemed to enjoy himself no matter what...riding the tractor or 4-wheeler,
helping stack wood or playing in the dirt...OH! to be 6 years old and have that much energy!

After we finished at Mr. & Mrs. Butler's for the day we were off the the pool and hot tub to relax for the evening. Steve, Ashley, Kayla and Hunter enjoyed a game of football in the pool between taking turns in the hot tub.

Steve and I are truly blessed to have such a wonderful family and great friends!

With the weekend over...Steve is on his way to work and I am off to bed so that I can work 7p-7a tonight.

"Home for the weekend"

2009-03-12T17:20:00.000-07:00

We are headed to Jackson/Charleston tomorrow for the weekend...check back for new pics and family/friend updates.

Weekend in Jackson/Charleston

2009-03-01T06:59:00.000-08:00

Friday evening when Steve got off work we headed South to see family and friends. First, we picked up Hunter and invited Mollie, Chris and Darla to dinner at ET's (Chris was unable to make dinner...he has no idea how much fun he missed). Hunter loves the cheese dip and chips and Mollie and Darla have their favorites. What a fun evening the girls talked about their week of school and work. Hunter was enjoying the food to much to talk except to ask what time did he get to go swimming!

After dinner Hunter, Steve and I were off to the Drury Inn for some down time! Hunter loves the water...even more so when Steve and I swim with him. He worked on floating with Steve's help...he is somewhat fearful of being alone in the water and/or putting his face in the water. Next he found the "hot tub" at which he would sit in the hot tub for a few minutes and then jump in the pool and yell for Steve to join him in "the big pool". He is so much fun to be around and Steve and I wish we had just a portion of his energy.

Saturday morning we were up early and off to Charleston with my Dad to survey the ice damage at Jan and Red's. God's blessing was that their house sustained minimal damage but we can not say as much for the backyard. They have substantial tree damage but a few days of work with a chainsaw will change that also. Jan finished my "bed cover" it has grown from an afghan...it now covers a queen size bed. Steve and I had to spread it out after getting it home to include a picture so everyone can see Jan's beautiful handy work "I love it Jan, you did a wonderful job!" It is a piece of home that can travel with us everywhere.

We returned to Mom & Dad's for lunch and a visit with Mom, Dad, Kayla, Donna, Dennis, Ashley and Hunter. Lastly, we said our good-byes but Hunter knows that we will return on March 13th...he is already counting down the days.

Next, we were off to an early dinner with our friends Donna & Rodger...they are both doing great! Though it had been over a month since we had seen them last...our conversation picked up as if it was yesterday. The four of us laughed through the entire meal and even entertained our waiter at times.

After dinner we stopped for "Good-Bye" hugs with Mollie, Darla...and Dutchess. Making sure that all is right with their world before heading back to Rolla! We miss everyone but will see you soon! My next trip home will include a Ruben and a tea at McAlister's!!

Ready for the work week!

2009-02-22T09:02:00.001-08:00

Saturday morning we woke to "Snow" but it did not stop Steve and I from traveling home!

We first stopped in Perryville to pick up our taxes Linda & Sherry at PBS Income Tax and Bookkeeping have worked hard to file our taxes in Missouri, Arkansas & Arizona for 2008. We are grateful they know where to enter all the numbers!!

Next stop we picked up Hunter for an enjoyable afternoon, to celebrate his "Green Day". We picked up a "Mizzou" shirt for him in honor of having three "Green Days" this past week, but we had to make a quick stop at "Toys R Us" for additional rewards.

Then we were off to a late lunch with Mr. & Mrs. Butler. Red's hand is healing nicely after his "table saw accident" and Jan has been working with her insurance adjuster to get things back to normal after the ice storm. We hope they have an uneventful week so they can rest up from their busy days of late.

Then we were off to visit with my Mom & Dad...who are doing well. Mom continues to make almost daily trips to the Lutheran Home to spend time with Grandma Proffer. Dad is still delivering loads for Ceramo when available...he is quite the workhorse! I got to see Terry briefly while visiting though he was hard at work with his father-in-law and friend Eric.

Lastly, we were off to see Mollie & Darla with an added surprise...I did get to see Lee...I had not seen her since before we left for Tucson. Steve and I took the girls to dinner to catch up and make sure that all was right with the world.

We are busy today getting ready for the work week...I made Lasagna and Steve baked brownies.

We wish our family and friends a blessed week and pray that Jerry has safe travel home from New Orleans.

Happy Valentine's Day

2009-02-14T13:25:00.000-08:00

Steve and I want to wish all of our family and friends a Happy Valentine Day! We are both off today and are planning a quiet evening at home.

Steve started a contract yesterday!!

2009-02-13T05:51:00.000-08:00

Steve started a contract yesterday at John Cochran VA Medical Center in St. Louis. He worked in CT yesterday and today and will be off Monday for President's Day.

We are very blessed by God's grace to be back in Missouri (close to family and friends), with both of us working a contract . Steve was very hopeful for a contract on a military base but the VA works just as well for the next 13 weeks.

Hunter's 100th Day

2009-02-06T05:40:00.000-08:00

Donna sent us this picture of Hunter from his 100th Day at school...they spent the day making cereal necklaces (from 100 pieces of cereal) painting banners and counting to 100. Doesn't he look grown up in his new glasses!!!!!

By the way Hunter...Uncle Steve wants to know "Who is the Chick?"

Winter Weather

2009-01-29T02:48:00.000-08:00

Hope all of our friends and family are staying warm and enjoying this winter weather. Steve and I have had the last three days off to watch the snow accumulate here in Rolla, M0. When it finally stopped we had about 7 inches of snow and sleet on the ground. The first evening we went out to play in the snow but after two days of watching it fall it wasn't near as intriguing (I guess we are getting old).

Not much has changed here...I am more settled in my job and the charting is much easier after three weeks of practice. Steve continues to enjoy the outdoor life here...his hiking pack sits by the door just in case he gets the chance to sneak off to the woods. Our recruiters are working on assignments for May...hard to believe that it will be spring and time to move on soon.

Spending the day at "Maramec Spring Park"

2009-01-17T16:22:00.000-08:00

Hunter has come to Rolla to spend the weekend.
After breakfast at the "Sawmill Cafe" we spent the day at Maramec Spring Park feeding the trout, hiking the trail, and watching the bald eagles.

2009-01-06T18:08:00.000-08:00

Steve and I have been in Rolla, MO for one week. We are mostly unpacked in our apartment and enjoying the "small town" atmosphere. Downtown Rolla has brick sidewalks and old-fashioned lamp posts...enjoying the slower pace of Rolla is a welcome change from hectic Tucson. Historic Route 66 runs through Rolla...we spent our first night at "Zeno's" motel...where the spirit of Route 66 lives on.

Happy New Year 2009

2009-01-01T18:50:00.000-08:00

Steve and I have enjoyed a quite New Year's Day in Rolla, MO. We want to wish all of our family and friends a Happy and Prosperous New Year.

Sherry... just to let you now my Christmas Cactus is loving the weather in Missouri, thank you it is beautiful.

2009-01-01T18:30:00.000-08:00

While we were home for the holidays we enjoyed many family gatherings. Christmas Day with the Butler Family...the day after Christmas with Danny, Missy, Madison, MaKayla and Alec (Alec did not want to be included in our pictures). Lastly the Ahrens Family Christmas...We could not believe how much Hannah has grown, how tall Kayla has gotten or how long Crystal's hair has grown (Hunter did not want to be included in the "Grandchildren Picture")

Living the Dream in Rolla, MO

2008-12-30T19:29:00.000-08:00

Hope this message finds everyone well and ready for the New Year. Steve and I arrived in Rolla, MO on Sunday 12/28/08 and are now moved into our apartment.

Today, they connect the cable and Internet!! I promise to update the blog spot on my next day off...we have lots of pictures to post from holiday gatherings.

Back in Cape Girardeau, MO

2008-12-18T17:32:00.000-08:00

Steve and I arrived home on Saturday, December 13th to chilly temperatures. I was able to see Grandma just hours after arriving...she asked "If I was though traveling?" We went to dinner at my Mom and Dad's...kettle beef, mashed potatoes, green beans and homemade bread...Steve was in heaven.

We have been busy visiting family and friends and weather proofing the RV for the frosty temperatures here in Missouri.

Last Shift At UMC Tucson

2008-12-11T02:59:00.001-08:00

My last shift included a wonderful farewell from my co-workers at UMC.

Dinner at Historic EL Corral in Tucson

2008-12-03T20:38:00.000-08:00

The staff from the ED at UMC went to dinner at EL Corral this evening. The steakhouse has been serving Tucsonans since 1936...they are know for their prime rib which Steve enjoyed this evening.

Becky is a nurse at UMC from San Diego (I thought I have commuted long distances in the past) she always has a smile for her co-workers and patients. Vicki (my preceptor when I first arrived at UMC) and her grandson Pierce came to dinner...she is one of the reasons that I survived my orientation.

Susan Kinkade and her husband Randy...she not only works in the ED but promotes injury prevention for AZ ENA in Southern Arizona.

Deb and Vance also work in the ED. They have been "life savers" to me on many occasions when drowning in my zone. I am going to miss all of you!

Lastly I had to take this picture...got to love Christmas lights on the cactus. We are only 9 days from leaving Tucson.

Thanksgiving Week 2008

2008-11-25T16:39:00.000-08:00

Steve and I will be working this Thanksgiving but we will be home for the Christmas and New Year Holidays. I am working 7p-7a Wednesday - Sunday and Steve is working days on Thanksgiving and 7p-7a Friday - Sunday.

Today Steve helped a friend with some work around the house he just bought...digging up a leaking water pipe and making the necessary repairs. At last, Dick will be able to take a hot shower in his new home tonight.

We spent the evening doing laundry for the weekend...we both love laundry night...as I am sure that you can tell from the pictures.

We want to wish all of our friends and family a happy Thanksgiving!

Trauma Nursing Core Course in Phoenix, AZ

2008-11-23T18:45:00.000-08:00

Good evening from Tucson, AZ, it was 80 degrees here in the "old Pueblo" today. Steve has worked this weekend and I spent the weekend in Phoenix at John C. Lincoln North Trauma Center instructing in their TNCC Course.

I was able to teach some of my favorite lectures (thoracic and musculoskeletal trauma) and the spinal immobilization and helmet removal station. The participants were mostly from hospitals in the Phoenix area with varying degrees of nursing experience.

Steve and I have a couple days off together and then I get to work the Holiday. We have so much to be thankful for this Thanksgiving...God is great and has blessed us with wonderful friends and family.

Good Friends!

2008-11-12T19:09:00.000-08:00

Dr. Draper visits Tucson, AZ...though he was here for a conference he made time for old friends. We had not seen each other since our wedding but the conversation picked up like it was yesterday. Thanks to cell phones we were able to include Sheri in the evening of catching up. We wish Dr. Draper safe travel home to Hannibal, MO and hope to see them more often than every two years.

God has truly blessed Steve and I with great friends and wonderful family!

As I am sitting here typing the police helicopter is flying overhead searching for someone in the wash next to the RV Resort. This "spotlight" search has become a frequent event in our evenings here in Tucson. We sit on the patio and wonder who and why the police are searching so close to our corner of the world.

From the bottom up.....

2008-11-05T09:07:00.000-08:00

November 4, 2008...what a day to behold. Steve and I made a return trip to the Grand Canyon leaving Williams, AZ at 9:00 am for an open air jeep tour from the west rim to the Colorado River. Our tour guide and driver for the day was John who has lived in the area for 42 years...we actually took these pictures after lunch at the Colorado River but I wanted everyone to see what we were traveling in (knowing the temperature was 45 degrees). We initially traveled from Williams to the Grand Canyon Caverns in a 15 passenger van. Stopping to visit the caverns for a tour 21 stories below ground...the ground sloth in the picture below was found in the caverns...thought to have fallen through a shaft into the caverns 3000 years ago. It measured approximately 14 feet tall and because there is only 6 % humidity in the caverns the remains were naturally mummified.

After recovering from the caverns (I have really never liked being under ground) we loaded the jeep for the trip to the west rim of the canyon. Nothing like being in an open air jeep traveling 75 miles per hour when it is 45 degrees. We access the west rim of the canyon on the Hualapai Indian Reservation stopping first at the Lodge to pay $90 access fee. The reservation in one of the poorest in Arizona even though they have the only road access into the canyon...our guide explained that the tribal elders do not disperse the revenue equally among tribal members. The largest building on the reservation is a teen detention center...John explained that teen gang activity is a growing problem on the reservation. Our next encounter as we traveled into the canyon was the wild burrows (which can be adopted) Steve fed this little fellow an orange.

The scenery was beautiful as we traveled into the canyon we could not believe the natural spring waterfalls that emptied into the Colorado River. The view when we arrived at the river was breathtaking.

Steve and I ventured to rivers edge to admire the peacefulness.

The sites as we traveled out of the canyon were awesome as well...note the boulder that is perched on the left side of the rock face. Our driver has been watching this for some time waiting for it to fall. After leaving the reservation we stopped in Seligman, AZ which Disney Pixar used for the basis of "Radiator Springs" in the movie "Cars". Steve and I were able to see the fire truck and police car with "eyes" and have our picture taken with "Mater" the tow truck. Hunter, know how much we admire you because it was really cold by this time to be out taking pictures.

2008-10-26T08:11:00.000-07:00

Sorry we have not posted to the blog in the past two weeks but work has kept Steve and I busy. We did take a break and see Frankenstein Lives at The Gaslight Theater

Wednesday evening with friends. What a great performance...it was a musical, comedy spoof based on the Bride of Frankenstein. However, this weekend it is back to the grind...we have worked the last two nights and are off to bed so we can work tonight. We hope everyone is enjoying the fall weather (we are even seeing a bit of it here in Arizona the temperature was 52 degrees this morning). We miss everyone and will be seeing you soon (Christmas is less than 2 months away).

Fall is coming to Arizona

2008-10-08T19:12:00.000-07:00

This morning it was 55 degrees here in Tucson...last night was the first night spent in the 5th wheel with the windows open and no air conditioner...other than when the power was off for 36 hours in July. However, never fear we were still in shorts today and grilling on our patio. We have put out some fall decorations even though it was still summer until today. Steve didn't want me to post his "grilling picture" he believes he has gained weight since coming to Tucson. However, he still wears the same clothes that he wore when we were in Missouri.

Angel's Last Night in Tucson

2008-10-08T18:26:00.001-07:00

Thursday evening Angel treated Steve and I to dinner at Claim Jumper Restaurant here in Tucson. Steve enjoyed a "widow maker" hamburger which was amusing to watch him eat. It was most interesting to watch him take the first bite...but never fear Steve was victorious! We recommend eating at Claim Jumper if you ever get the opportunity.

Montezuma's Well & Castle National Monument

2008-10-04T15:39:00.000-07:00

Our trip back to Tucson on Wednesday, October 1, 2008 started in Flagstaff, AZ...where we enjoyed antique shopping, wine boutiques, and speciality stores. Next stop was Montezuma's Well. The well is a limestone sink formed by the collapse of an immense underground cavern. The spring that feeds the well flows continuously. The Southern Sinagua pueblos here vary in size from 50 rooms to one-room houses built around 1100.

The Southern Sinagua irrigated crops with water from the well by building irrigation ditches, thickly coated with lime.

Our next stop "Montezuma Castle"...Southern Sinagua farmers began building this five-story, 20 room dwelling early in the 1100s CE. It stands in the cliff recess 100 feet above the valley. When early settlers discovered the structure they assumed it was Aztec in origin, hence the name Montezuma Castle.

Steve and Angel had time to catch up other than a phone call for the first time since Christmas. Angel has grown to be a beautiful young woman...what blessings God has bestowed on our family.

New meaning of the word "Awesome"

2008-10-02T14:59:00.000-07:00

This week our adventure in Arizona included the Grand Canyon. Angel flew in from Shreveport to spend the week with us...and we were off to Williams, AZ. Williams's main street is historic Route 66. Tuesday morning we boarded a 1920's train (not the one in the picture...but I loved the look of it parked at the train depot in Williams, AZ) and set off on a 65 mile trip to the Grand Canyon Depot. While we enjoyed the view of the country side we were served pastries and enjoyed "train songs".

Steve, Angel and myself enjoyed the history of the Grand Canyon Railway as told by the staff aboard the train. Our rail car attendant explained after we boarded the train at 10:00 am that it was acceptable to enjoy a glass of wine or cocktail en route to the Grand Canyon even though it was only 10:00 am because 1) we were on vacation and 2) it was at least noon somewhere in the world.

As a parent
you never stop looking out for your children...Steve reminded "Angel Dawn' on numerous occasions not to get close to the edge. Our first stop at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon was Yavapai Point at which we were able to view the splendor of the canyon and visit the museum.

Our next stop was Yaki Point...no museums just the beautiful canyon and quiet time to reflect. God has truly blessed Steve and I with wonderful children, our supportive families, great friends and the ability to work wherever he takes us.

Our trip then took us back to Grand Canyon Village where we enjoyed shopping at "Hopihouse" where we were awed by the Native American arts and crafts. Last stop before returning to the depot was EL TOVAR Hotel a 103 year old native stone and pine building, a cross between a hunting lodge and a Norwegian villa (cost to spend the night here between $160 - $315 per night) with a view of the canyon. We then boarded the train for the trip back to Williams . While we were waiting to board the train a lady standing near us summed up our Grand Canyon visit with this statement "My children now truly know the meaning of the word AWESOME". Steve and I may have to revisit the canyon before leaving Arizona. Our return train ride was most enjoyable and even included being held up by by bandits. However, the sheriff arrived and saved the day...Steve and I enjoyed the day so much...getting to spend time with Angel and visiting the Grand Canyon and relaxing. After returning to Williams we enjoyed a carriage ride down historic route 66.

Visit to Bisbee, Arizona

2008-09-18T20:27:00.000-07:00

Steve and I visited Bisbee, AZ today. Bisbee was the largest city between St. Louis and San Francisco in 1920 and is located 90 miles southeast of Tucson in the Mule Mountains...home of the Copper Queen Mine. We stopped for lunch at the "Winchester's Restaurant" in the Copper Queen Hotel which was built in 1902 by the Phelps Dodge Mining Company as a place for dignitaries and investors to relax in luxury. The hotel was recently featured on the Sci-Fi Channel's "Ghost Hunters" episode "Spirits of the Old West". We were told there are three resident ghosts at the Copper Queen Hotel. This small bird perched next to us as we enjoyed lunch on the patio...even the locals eat at "Winchester's Restaurant"

After exploring the town of Bisbee we stopped at the Lavender Pit Mine...it is a huge multicolored hole which produced 94 million tons of copper. The mines were productive in Bisbee until 1975. The Queen Mine produced copper, gold, silver, lead and zinc...the mine is owned by the Phelps Dodge Corporation which has long been one of the largest copper producers in the United States.

Next stop Naco, AZ Border Station...Steve had to get out and take pictures of the fence that our "border jumpers" injure themselves on trying to get into the United States.

Titan II Missile

2008-09-09T19:31:00.000-07:00

Steve and I visited the Titan II Missile Museum last Thursday. If you remember your history the missile is a relic from the Cold War which held a nuclear payload 214 times as powerful as the bomb that destroyed Hiroshima.

The tour took us down to the control center where the crew lived and prepared to fire the 165 ton rocket. I was allowed to sit where the crew chief would work and turn the key if it would have been necessary to fire the missile.

After learning about the control center and the process that would be followed to fire the missile we continued to the missile silo. The nine story silo showed us the work that went into maintaining the missile in a "ready state".

After leaving the missile silo we traveled to Tubac for lunch and shopping. Tubac was established in 1752 as a Spanish presido...today it is home to 100 shops which include art galleries, artist studios and gift shops.

We are finishing 13 weeks.

2008-08-28T07:59:00.000-07:00

We have been in Tucson for thirteen weeks! Time has flow by...it is hard to believe that we have been here since May.

Steve enjoys his job now that he is working weekends and has time off during the week to hike, swim, pan for gold and explore caves (something he enjoys not me).

My job is amazing...the emergency department is "insane" most of the time with 6 - 8 hour waits. I have never seen a homeless population like I have seen here. They treat border jumpers on a regular basis...patching them up so they can be returned to Mexico. However, I have met some of the coolest nurses while on assignment here and have made many friends that I will miss greatly when this assignment is over. I am going to teach TNCC here in Payson, AZ the first weekend in November (something that I thought I would have to give up as a travel nurse). Though time has flown by we do miss our families and friends. We are looking forward to seeing everyone when we travel home for the holidays.

Keeping up with Jackson Softball!

2008-08-28T07:35:00.000-07:00

Ashley,

Great picture, this will be a wonderful way to keep up with your softball season, if you can get your picture in the paper weekly.

Love you,

Aunt Brenda

Colossal Cave

2008-08-27T21:40:00.000-07:00

Steve went exploring in Colossal Cave yesterday. The cave has been home to the Hohokam and Apache Indians as well as many outlaws over the years.

The second picture is of the "wedding chapel" a room with what appeared to be an alter where actual weddings were preformed.

This picture is of the "silent waterfall" formed over millions of years.

We have had a uneventful week...work, laundry, limited sightseeing, and rest. The weather here has been overcast the past 3 days with rain showers in the evening. We hope everyone is well and gearing up for a safe and restful Labor Day weekend.

Exploring Tucson

2008-08-22T17:42:00.000-07:00

This weeks adventure was the "Sonora Desert Museum". Steve and I stopped to watch the prairie dog and his antics as he anxiously watched us.

The deer and mountain lion were enjoying the shade in the summer sun but we did get close enough for a picture.
Hunter...Steve just had to get this picture for you! Below is the limestone cave, complete with stalagmites, stalactites and pools.

Storms bring many things from the mountain.

2008-08-14T13:04:00.000-07:00

The storms rolled in from the mountain last evening and left us without electric since midnight. I have spent part of the day in the pool and doing laundry (the AC is solar powered in the laundry room). Just an edit about the electric...Steve and I did not get electric restored for 34 hours. I can not say that I recommend spending 34 hours in Tucson's summer sun in a 5th wheel trailer without air conditioning!

Steve has went to the mountain with his Uncle L.C. to pan for gold. I have learned that the best time to pan for gold is after it rains at which the gold is carried from the mountains in the streams. Steve was up at 6:00 am packing and repacking his gear for his new adventure. They said the guns were just in case of snakes.

Working!

2008-08-08T13:40:00.000-07:00

"Working" is all that I can say about this past week. I just finished a six day stretch at UMC and start a 4 day stretch on Saturday. Steve starts his stretch (F-S-S) tonight at Sierra Vista.

We did enjoy dinner and the "Mexican Train Game" with Steve's Uncle L.C. last evening but now we are back to the grind.

I am going to attend the Arizona ENA meeting this evening (the Emergency Nurses Association is part of me no matter where I am).

Please keep my Grandmother in your prayers she was admitted to Southeast Missouri Hospital in Cape Girardeau tonight. I called and spoke to her nurse (as everyone knew I would) and talked to her for a moment at which she seemed so frail. I pray that God releive Grandma's pain and help her to breath without difficulty. Grandma has been such a part of Mollie and my life since we moved back to Jackson in 1997. I am not sure if she ever understood my divorce from Mollie's Dad but she never once asked. She was determined in September of 2000 that I buy my house on Oak Street, so that Mollie had a "home". She has accepted Steve into our family as if she had known him all of her life. God please be with Grandma.

We wish everyone a bless weekend. Brenda & Steve

"Living the Dream"

2008-07-27T16:24:00.000-07:00

Hello All,

This weekend Steve and I stayed close to "home". We walked in the morning and spent our afternoons at the pool. We have both been working crazy hours this past week and were ready for some down time.

We continue to be in "Monsoon Season" so every evening the wind picks up and around 8 pm the rain starts. Steve loves to watch the storms as they roll in from the mountains. Saturday morning the "wash" next to the resort actually had running water in it, for the first time since we moved here.

I tried my hand at making chicken enchiladas using a recipe from a co-worker at the hospital. I hope to have an impeccable Mexican recipe file before I leave Tucson. Steve loved the enchiladas and is looking forward to having leftovers when I am working this week.

God has bestowed his blessings on us as we continue "living the dream".

They don't trim trees like this in Missouri!

2008-07-25T12:09:00.000-07:00

I watched as they came down the street this morning trimming the palm trees. They trim trees from 6am - 11am and then spend the rest of the day cleaning up the mess. There are over 1000 palm trees here in the resort.

We made it to the weekend!

2008-07-20T17:50:00.000-07:00

My Friday adventure. I spent the day exploring in Sierra Vista while Steve was at work. Steve asked as we drove to Sierra Vista Friday morning "what are you going to do for 8 hours". My thought was after four nights at UMC with drunks, psych patients, and homeless patients that hadn't taken a bath in 3 months...I was going to have a quiet day and a cup of coffee. First, I looked for those points of interest...the mall and visitors center. "The Mall at Sierra Vista" is small but relatively quiet and serves a great latte. Then I was off to the visitors center to see what I could fill my afternoon with. I decided on a little bit of history as I ventured to one of the Fort Huachuca Museums. Note: Fort Huachuca is an active military installation so after finding my vehicle registration, proof of insurance and a photo ID my pass for the afternoon was awarded. I did enjoy my walk through history (I will have to go back with Steve because he would have enjoyed it even more.) learning about the "Buffalo Soldiers" as they tracked Geronimo in 1886 and followed John Pershing into Mexico in pursuit of Pancho Villa in 1916. What a peaceful day just a little "window shopping" a cup of coffee and a stroll through history.

Saturday evening we 'kicked up our heels" and went out with friends from work for a going away dinner. The first pics is Steve and I, just in case you don't remember how we look, with Vicki Alexander (she was my preceptor when I started at UMC). Vickie did a travel assignment in Kodak, Alaska some years ago and is great to work with because she doesn't hold a grudge against travelers.

Next picture: Sherry Welch and her significant other Keith. She is also a traveler and we started at UMC on the same day. Everyone in the department thinks we have been traveling together for years but we met for the first time June 2nd and she is a great friend and co-worker. I truly believe she is a blessing from God...she always seems to be working when I am "drowning" in the department or vice versa.

The reason for the "night out" was Wes (in the AC/DC shirt) is finishing his contract and going to a new assignment. Wes is an awesome nurse and he has a way of making you laugh despite what is going on in the department...he truly is "off the chain" (a favorite saying). Pictured with Wes is Annie who transferred to the emergency department at UMC in February 2007 and Diego who graduated nursing school in May 2008 and passed his RN boards but has been working in the department as a patient care technician related to policy. (Note: UMC only allows new graduate nurses to start in July every year.)

After dinner we "retired" upstairs for a game of darts. Steve and Annie played against Diego and Wes. Steve tried to give Diego some pointers. This was a truly enjoyable evening getting to laugh and joke with people who live the same "work life" that we do.

Steve and Annie where victorious!

Weekend Adventure Continued!

2008-07-13T10:00:00.000-07:00

Sorry our "weekend adventure" is a two part post because after a day of fresh mountain air I fell asleep. As we made our way back down the mountain we enjoyed a visual reminder of God's great power. The beautiful mountain view...blue skies and pine trees at 7000 feet elevation with the storms moving off the mountain. Then at 5000 feet elevation our sunny day had returned but the pine trees had left our view.

Then about 6 miles from the base we enjoy the desert foliage once again with the temperature of 100 degrees.

Weekend Adventure

2008-07-12T20:20:00.000-07:00

This morning we left Tucson's sunny 98 degree weather headed for Mt. Lemmon (everyone promised it would be 20 degrees cooler there). We arrived at 8000 feet elevation to discover "everyone" was right you notice the storm clouds over the mountains. The day wasn't a total wash we found a pizzeria and enjoyed lunch as we watched the storm.

Working till the weekend!

2008-07-08T06:38:00.000-07:00

Hello All,

Hope that all is going well with you and your families. No pictures today just wanted to let everyone know that both Steve and I are working till Friday and then we plan on going to Mt. Lemmon (stay tuned for more pics).

Rainy days bring beauty!

2008-07-02T14:26:00.000-07:00

True "Monsoon Season" every afternoon about 3:00 pm the wind picks up and by 5:30 pm we get rain (anywhere from 1/4 inch to 2 inches). Steve enjoys watching the storms move in from the mountains trying to catch pictures of the lightening. Yesterday, his focus was a beautiful rainbow that seemed to end here at the RV Resort. The desert flowers are starting to bloom...amazing what a little water will do. Hope everyone has a safe holiday...fireworks are against the law here and carry a $1000 fine for just possessing them in the state of Arizona.

Monsoon 2008

2008-06-26T14:56:00.000-07:00

We are getting the first rain since April! Yes, here in Tucson they call this the "Monsoon Season" They have a law here if you drive into water and have to have your vehicle and/or yourself rescued you are charged a $2000 fine by the "stupid motorist law".
I was able to sit on the patio and watch the storm move in from the foothills just East of the resort. Amazing that as the storm moves in you can no longer see the mountains in the background.

Steve started work at Sierra Vista, AZ

2008-06-24T17:05:00.000-07:00

Steve started work at Sierra Vista Medical Center yesterday! Sierra Vista is located next to Fort Huachuca near the Mexico border about 50 miles south of Tucson. There were three other people from Missouri in orientation with him, of which one was born at Southeast Missouri Hospital in 1980. What a small world we live in.

Day trip to Tombstone, AZ

2008-06-16T20:26:00.000-07:00

"Town Too Tough to Die", first stop was the 100 year old Longhorn restaurant. After enjoying a "Cowboy Breakfast" we were set for a day of shopping and gunfights.

Note: The temperature is 108 degrees by 1 pm.

We ventured into the "Bird Cage Theater" that is the home of the gold-trimmed Black Moriah hearse that transported the losing team at the OK Corral shoutout to Boot Hill cemetery. Next stop the "Tombstone Epitaph" that reported the gunfight at the OK Corral.

We visited C.S. Fly's photo gallery which included pictures of Geronimo and his surrender.

Next stop was the OK Corral where story tellers recounted

October 26,1881.

At 2:oo pm (remember it is 108 degrees) we paid to see the reenactment of the shootout at

OK Corral. They did a fabulous job but I liked it better when Kurt Russell and Sam Elliott played the part.

As we headed out of town we stopped by Wyatt Earp's home and the Boothill Cemetery which is open to the public.

Steve's new friend.

2008-06-14T16:06:00.000-07:00

Steve has a new "friend"...this owl lives in the pine trees by the pool. The wildlife here is so different from home. However, we do hear coyotes in the wash next to the resort at night.

Hope everyone is having a great weekend

Love Steve & Brenda

Desert life!

2008-06-09T17:56:00.000-07:00

Our shuttle driver took our picture next to the saguaro cactus...below is what is known as a "jumping cactus" it is attracted to moisture so when you walk near, it "jumps" out and touches you.

Wonderful Birthday

2008-06-09T17:15:00.000-07:00

Today we walked some trails in beautiful Sabino Canyon just north of the Tucson city limits. The mountain view was awesome from the canyon you can even see trees at the upper elevation.

Why exactly did the United States fight so hard to
take this land from the indians?

Steve just had to check out the creek...looking for water. No he did not find water in this creek! Everyone tells us to wait until the "monsoons" start in July.

Windy Day

2008-06-04T20:37:00.000-07:00

The wind has been blowing all day at 45 mph. The day didn't seem near as hot and tonight it is 60 degrees...it doesn't seem possible. Steve and I spent most of the day at the pool working on our Arizona tans (using lots of sun screen of course). Please keep my Grandmother in your prayers she was admitted to Southeast Missouri Hospital this evening with chestpain.

First Day at UMC

2008-06-02T18:39:00.000-07:00

I started at University Medical Center today...passing all of my required drug dosage and cardiac rhythm tests! Tomorrow is 8 hours of computer training to use the computer system in the ED.

Ouch!

2008-06-02T11:50:00.000-07:00

You know Steve...he has to find everything out for himself. We are having a great time...we attended Mt. Olive Lutheran Church yesterday and then spent the afternoon at the pool. The temperature stays steady in the triple digits.

What a View!

2008-05-31T13:15:00.000-07:00

We have found a place to live in Tucson (Rincon Country East RV Resort). We have a beautiful view of the mountains from our patio area. We are spending our days in the pool. The water temperature has been 90 degrees both days but it feels cool compared to the actual temperature of 102 degrees. We have been able to sample awesome Mexican food the past week. Steve picked oranges from a tree in his Uncle's backyard on Thursday (a first for him). We have spent several evenings visiting with Steve's family his Uncle L.C., cousins Stan and Vickie and her friend Terry.

Wish everyone a wonderful weekend. Brenda & Steve

We have arrived!!

2008-05-26T21:49:00.000-07:00

After three days on the road we are here and have enjoyed many sites in Arkansas, Texas, New Mexico and now Arizona. Other than a slight issue with the truck the trip was uneventful. We are at a KOA near Tucson until we find a park we want to call home for the next 13 weeks. Tomorrow we are off to Phoenix so I can obtain my AZ nurses license.

Best Friends

2008-05-24T05:42:00.000-07:00

Darla will move in with Mollie today...best friends and now roommates!

Leaving today for Tucson

2008-05-20T19:48:00.000-07:00

Today is the Day! Graduation is behind us...Darla moves in with Mollie today and Steve and I will be on our way after lunch. Today we are putting out all of those last minute fires.