The Gunn Clan

Mexico's Big Freeze

2011-02-09T13:15:00.001-07:00

Just got this email yesterday. Do we all have our food storage? It looks
more and more like the time when we will need it is coming soon. Love you
all!
Alli

> February 8, 2011
> Mexico's Big Freeze
>
> ALL OF OUR GROWERS HAVE INVOKED THE ACT OF GOD CLAUSE ON OUR
> CONTRACTS DUE TO THE FOLLOWING RELEASE. WE WILL BE CONTACTING YOU
> PERSONALLY TO REVIEW HOW THIS WILL AFFECT OUR CONTRACTED ITEMS
> WITH YOU GOING FORWARD.
>
> THE DEVASTATING FREEZE IN MEXICO IS WORST FREEZE IN OVER 50 YEARS...
>
> THE EXTREME FREEZING TEMPERATURES HIT A VERY BROAD SECTION OF
> MAJOR GROWING REGIONS IN MEXICO, FROM HERMOSILLO IN THE NORTH ALL
> THE WAY SOUTH TO LOS MOCHIS AND EVEN SOUTH OF CULIACAN. THE EARLY
> REPORTS ARE STILL COMING IN BUT MOST ARE SHOWING LOSSES OF CROPS
> IN THE RANGE OF 80 TO 100%. EVEN SHADE HOUSE PRODUCT WAS HIT BY
> THE EXTREMELY COLD TEMPS. IT WILL TAKE 7-10 DAYS TO HAVE A
> CLEARER PICTURE FROM GROWERS AND FIELD SUPERVISORS, BUT THESE
> GROWING REGIONS HAVEN'T HAD COLD LIKE THIS IN OVER A HALF CENTURY.
> THIS TIME OF YEAR, MEXICO SUPPLIES A SIGNIFICANT PERCENT OF NORTH
> AMERICA'S ROW CROP VEGETABLES SUCH AS: GREEN BEANS, EGGPLANT,
> CUCUMBERS, SQUASH, PEPPERS, ASPARAGUS, AND ROUND AND ROMA TOMATOES.
> FLORIDA NORMALLY IS A MAJOR SUPPLIER FOR THESE ITEMS AS WELL BUT
> THEY HAVE ALREADY BEEN STRUCK WITH SEVERE FREEZE DAMAGE IN DECEMBER
> AND JANUARY AND UP UNTIL NOW HAVE HAD TO PURCHASE PRODUCT OUT OF
> MEXICO TO FILL THEIR COMMITMENTS, THAT IS NO LONGER AND OPTION.
> WITH THE SERIES OF WEATHER DISASTERS THAT HAS OCCURRED IN BOTH OF
> THESE MAJOR GROWING AREAS WE WILL EXPERIENCE IMMEDIATE VOLATILE
> PRICES, EXPECTED LIMITED AVAILABILITY, AND MEDIOCRE QUALITY AT BEST.
> THIS WILL NOT ONLY HAVE AN IMMEDIATE IMPACT ON SUPPLIES,
> BUT BECAUSE OF VERY STRONG BLOSSOM DROPS, THIS WILL ALSO IMPACT
> SUPPLIES 30 – 60 DAYS FROM NOW. SOME GROWERS ARE MEETING WITH
> THEIR BOARDS RIGHT NOW TO DETERMINE WHETHER THEY SHOULD
> IMMEDIATELY RE-PLANT, HOPING FOR A HARVEST BY
> LATE-MARCH-TO-EARLY-APRIL, OR WHETHER THEY SHOULD DISC THE FIELDS
> UNDER AND WAIT FOR ANOTHER SEASON.
>
> We are doing everything we can with our growers to minimize the
> effect of this disaster on you. With the unprecedented magnitude
> of this event we wanted to immediately make you aware of the
> conditions. We will continue to send out communications as our
> people on the ground report back to us. We thank you and we
> appreciate your understanding during this time.
>
> Sysco Intermountain

My little boy is growing up! (sigh)

2011-01-06T15:22:00.000-07:00

Cole feeding himself at Jacqui's house.

The girls

2010-12-08T22:01:00.000-07:00

On their way to sit on Santa's lap. Gifts asked for in order from left to right ... Light bulbs (yes, light bulbs), pink bubble gum (seriously? Lucky mom!), and the sucker given to every kid who sits on Santa's lap. Way to dream big kids!!!

Like father like son

2010-12-06T22:44:00.000-07:00

The Thornton boys all spiffed up for church.

Cutlery Corner's first Muslim customer

2010-11-24T17:37:00.000-07:00

The only question is how did she make it through the rigorous security of CutCor?

It's A Hard Knock Life

2010-09-03T17:15:00.000-06:00

Cole's first car ride

2010-08-21T18:50:00.000-06:00

Davis and Cole

2010-08-21T18:49:00.000-06:00

Gary's 80th B-day

2010-04-14T11:26:00.000-06:00

Thanksgiving Point Summer 09

2010-02-22T10:19:00.000-07:00

Davis' first dance performance!

2010-02-09T02:20:00.001-07:00

Message from Alli, Gary, & Davis:

Davis dancing at the Flash halftime on Friday, February 5, 2010.

Click below to see your personalized greeting card and watch the accompanying video:

Video 36
Video Length 1:41
Click here to watch

To learn more about the Flip Video Camcorder, click here.

Halloween Party

2009-11-06T09:37:00.004-07:00

Grand Champs ... Again!

2009-10-18T21:53:00.000-06:00

Here is our prize winning pumpkin from this year. This was the 10th
annual Thornton pumpkin carve off and our fifth Grand Champion
pumpkin. This was also the third year in a row that we've won. We had
a blast as usual!! I give it a week before it's splattered across the
road by some kid. :)

Davis T. is entered into the Gap Casting Call

2009-09-26T15:04:00.001-06:00


Hello everyone! I entered Davis for the Gap Casting Call online. No, I don't really think that she will be the 'new face of Gap' ... not because she's not cute enough :) ..., but if she's the fan favorite you can win a cruise. And after... all who couldn't use a cruise every now and then? You can vote once per email every 24 hours ... and if she wins I promise to bring you all back a fabulously cheesy souvenir ... the quality of which will be determined by how many times you vote! Alli Gap is holding a nationwide contest to find the next faces of babyGap and GapKids, and Davis T. is entered into the contest. Check out Davis T.'s entry here:	Contestant # 45094545
This email was sent to you by your friend to refer you to the Gap Casting Call. You have not been added to Gap's marketing list.

This message was sent using SocialTwist Tell-a-Friend
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H1N1 Family Considerations

2009-09-22T16:22:00.003-06:00

Us old guys just got back from a great time at Lake Powell. It was fun to spend time with Mom & Dad Gunn. When we got home I had a chance to speak to Savanna who had just finished a government mandated H1N1 training session for Jordan Valley Hospital. She had some important information that I think is pertinent for all of us to consider this winter.

First, I must put this information in context. Savanna has over the months expressed a personal feeling that the H1N1 information being diseminated through the media was a bunch of baloney. She has changed her attitude completely after the training.

So here again are some things we should/must consider as we interact as a family.

1. H1N1 virus is different than the normal flu. The government is expecting an outbreak similar to the Spanish Flu decades ago that was devastating world-wide. This virus can be a killer, particularly to those groups considered to be at risk. We must be more careful in exposing each other to this virus. Even when it is inconvenient.

2. Mom & Dad Gunn are in one of the high risk groups. People over the age of 65 with kidney disease, diabetes and respiratory issues are at very high risk. Please do not expose them through personal contact if you or your kids have ANY of the following symptoms. Fever (101 or higher), cough, aching muscles, or any other flu like symptoms. If in doubt, don't expose. We will all need to be very mindful of this, even if you aren't getting sick from the exposure and even if Mom & Dad poo-poo the risk.

3. The H1N1 vaccine is limited and will be given to the highest risk categories first. Anyone that is pregnant and in the third trimester is at great risk. Children under the age of 5 are at high risk too. I know all young people are immortal but it is better to be safe than sorry.

4. Savanna is not trying to panic or scare people but she says that the government is expecting the worse starting next month. As an example, she knows of some hospitals that will be triaging emergency room visits through a drive-up window. Those having ANY flu like symptoms will be quarantined in a separate facility to avoid exposure to the general public/hospital goers. This isn't the only information that has caused her concern but the gist of the message is to that we need to take this potential epidemic seriously.

Now, you all know I'm not a doctor and I certainly don't want anyone to go out and act singly on the information I have given. Maybe the impetus for all this is to start a discussion that will have us all consider how we interact in the coming months, particularly with Mom & Dad Gunn, so as to not expose each other to this potentially deadly virus. As a bishop it seemed to me that most Mormons thought that the ends justified the means when exposing each other to sickness. Certainly no one can get sick if they are simply going to Church and doing the right thing...can they?!

Let's don't use this mentality with those we love. The risk is just might be too great.

Thanks for the forum.

Glenn

Future pilots??? Hill Air Force Museum with Gpa Gunn

2009-07-22T23:46:00.001-06:00

Dell Deals: Treat yourself to a sweet deal on popular laptops!

Mace and her doll!

2009-07-22T23:43:00.001-06:00

Dell Deals: Treat yourself to a sweet deal on popular laptops!

boswell reunion 3

2009-07-22T23:41:00.001-06:00

Dell Deals: Treat yourself to a sweet deal on popular laptops!

boswell reunion 2

2009-07-22T23:39:00.000-06:00

Dell Deals: Treat yourself to a sweet deal on popular laptops!

boswell reunion

2009-07-22T23:37:00.000-06:00

Dell Deals: Treat yourself to a sweet deal on popular laptops!

Can you say "cheese"?

2009-07-22T11:42:00.000-06:00

Who's the kook on the right???!!!

2009-07-16T23:23:00.001-06:00

An Excellent Credit Score is 750. See Yours in Just 2 Easy Steps!

Disney World!!! and birthday!!!!

2009-06-05T21:15:00.003-06:00

Outside the Lego store in Downtown Disney. This is for you Cams. What could be better than Lego dogs?

The Orlando Florida temple.

Our delicious ice cream sundae. I'd been looking forward to this the whole trip, but Nicole got the first bite.

Mary Poppins. She was hitting on me, "May I take your arm?"

It was the flower festival at Epcot while we were there. All the characters were made of shrubbery.

Our hotel, or Disney World! It was soooooooooo humid.

In the Animal Kingdom, Nicole's second favorite park. She especially liked the Safari ride. I liked the Yeti. It went backwards.

We're about to be trampled by an imperial walker, but don't seem too worried about it.

My pirate birthday loot. AAAAAARRRRR! Notice my awesome skull head card behind the cake!

The complete package, 30 year-old pirate included (no eyepatch, yet).

Kangaroo Spooning

2009-05-16T11:22:00.004-06:00

Illegal in all 50 states...but not Australia! If you want to see more of our Australia trip pics, go to www.thegunnfam.com

Crime Tracking website

2009-05-14T22:50:00.001-06:00

Hey everybody!

www.crimereports.com

We saw this website on ABC news tonight. You can look up your address and it shows the different crimes that have happened in your area. It will also show registered sex offenders with an address and picture. Good to know!

Alli

An Excellent Credit Score is 750. See Yours in Just 2 Easy Steps!

Mother's Day 2009

2009-05-14T10:57:00.001-06:00

Davis riding jockey style

2009-05-12T08:40:00.000-06:00

Flash ... Aaah!

2009-05-10T18:03:00.000-06:00

The nugget napper

2009-05-10T18:00:00.000-06:00

Davis & the tulips

2009-05-10T17:57:00.000-06:00

maybe a little too much love..poor Madden!

2009-05-10T17:28:00.001-06:00

We found the real 'Hotel California' and the 'Seinfeld' diner. What will you find? Explore WhereItsAt.com.

The reason I'm a mom on mothers day!

2009-05-10T17:27:00.000-06:00

We found the real 'Hotel California' and the 'Seinfeld' diner. What will you find? Explore WhereItsAt.com.

Macey and Easton

2009-05-10T17:26:00.000-06:00

We found the real 'Hotel California' and the 'Seinfeld' diner. What will you find? Explore WhereItsAt.com.

Davis & Dad hanging at the beach

2009-04-19T17:00:00.000-06:00

Grandpa & Davis

2009-04-19T16:55:00.000-06:00

Davis & mom at the beach

2009-04-15T12:41:00.000-06:00

Notice my smile ... That's only because my feet are on mommy's lap and
not in the sand!!!

Davis at the playplace

2009-04-15T12:37:00.000-06:00

Usually mom can't keep me off the stairs, but this time I was more
content to sit than climb.

Davis cup diving

2009-04-15T12:32:00.000-06:00

It didn't take long for Grandpa to slip her a sip of Diet Coke even
after getting chastised by mom.

Davis dog hunting

2009-04-15T12:27:00.000-06:00

Davis on her daily morning dog watching walk. The woof woofs don't
stand a chance against Davis' eagle eyes & cheesy smile.

Macey training to be a hair stylist!

2009-03-24T23:17:00.001-06:00

Great Deals on Dell 15" Laptops - Starting at $479

Sidewalk chalk. Face paint. What's the difference?

2009-03-24T23:15:00.001-06:00

Great Deals on Dell 15" Laptops - Starting at $479

"Hello Buddy!"

2009-03-24T23:14:00.001-06:00

Great Deals on Dell 15" Laptops - Starting at $479

Mover & Shaker

2009-03-16T08:19:00.000-06:00

"Hi, Macey! Did you see that cute boy on the slide today? Yeah, he
did have a nice diaper!"

Davis & the rice krispies caper

2009-03-16T08:14:00.001-06:00

We have obviously not yet mastered the art of the spoon!

Princess Macey

2009-03-14T13:12:00.000-06:00

Davis' life sentence

2009-02-27T13:07:00.000-07:00

Who knew there was gambling in jail.

Daviserella

2009-02-27T13:04:00.000-07:00

Mom is a slave driver! Sweeping, cleaning ... someone save me!

Macey's pre-launch routine

2009-02-27T12:58:00.000-07:00

Davis & Macey enjoying the farm

2009-02-27T12:56:00.000-07:00

Where's Davis?

2009-02-27T12:52:00.000-07:00

Davis & Macey hanging at the shop

2009-02-27T12:49:00.000-07:00

Davis' morning face

2009-02-11T22:36:00.000-07:00

She's finally acquired her "cheesy" smile!

2008-12-06T22:21:00.002-07:00

corey's results came back this week. it's true...he does have a brain. yay! no really, the mass was a little bigger than they thought at first but it's not anything deadly. it's not caused by cancer, ms or any other ugly beauty. it's either caused by or causing his migraines, they aren't sure which (excellent diagnosis) and as far as we know they can't fix it. so he will have to suck up the headaches for a while. he'll make an appointment later this week and we'll keep everybody posted. on a fab new note, jake went in for blood work to check his liver function--he's been having really bad stomachaches. will update that when we know more.

2008-12-06T22:15:00.001-07:00

i just want to know if she plans to share all that comfort? with me..that's all i care about!

Maceys first fortune

2008-12-03T21:13:00.001-07:00

Macey ate her first fortune cookie today and received this fortune:
YOU ARE GOING TO HAVE A VERY COMFORTABLE LIFE! Swwwweeet!

Fwd: Freeze Dried Food Storage

2008-11-23T23:54:00.002-07:00

Subject: Freeze Dried Food Storage

Dear Sisters,

In case you are looking for some food storage, this company makes freeze dried food storage. It costs about $500 a month for 2 meals a day for 2 adults and 3 children. You can also purchase 3 meals a day for more if you want.

The name of the company is Daily Bread. They stopped by our home and let us try their chicken, rice, and teriyaki. All you have to do is add hot water and let it sit for 10 minutes. It was pretty good. I like the variety of meals that you get. These have a shelf life of 30+ years. A Anyway, if you are interested let me know, or contact Danny Wright below.

All the information and pricing is attached to this email.

Carol Hill
876 High Country Drive
Orem, Ut 84097
801-224-7512

Hi Carol,

Here's all the packages and pricing I showed you yesterday. I know it's not the most exciting purchase to make, but I'm sure you guys will be glad you did. Thanks again for your help with your ward members and anyone else who might be interested. I think sending an email to let them know I'll be contacting them is a great idea. I'm sure we'll be able to help a lot of families get a sufficient food storage supply. Have a great weekend! Talk to you soon.

Thanks,

Danny

Danny Wright
(949) 355-5098

Fwd: Daily Bread Food Storage

2008-11-23T23:49:00.002-07:00

Hi Carol,

Here's a little message you can forward to everyone in your ward. I really appreciate your help. It's the best way for us to help people find out about our products and get their food storage supply. It would be great for you to just add a little bit stating you've tasted it and encouraging everyone to request a sample. We could also do a presentation for a large group of people if you or someone else wants to put it together. I'll provide all the location, food, and any flyers that are needed to inform people about the meeting, and I can help out in the planning however you need me to.

Daily Bread is a food storage company that offers the best-tasting, longest-lasting freeze-dried foods. They have made food storage easy by providing a variety of full pre-packaged meals with a 30+ year shelf-life. These meals include both breakfast and lunch/dinner entrees such as: scrambled eggs with bacon, pancakes, oatmeal, lasagna, chicken ala king, chicken teryaki with rice, beef stroganoff, spaghetti, vegetable stew with beef, and many more. Preparation only takes on average 10 minutes and only requires adding water. They also offer milk with a 25+ year shelf-life, 72-hour kits, and many other emergency supplies. Please call or email Danny Wright for a free sample (949)355-5098, golfingbeaver@gmail.com.

Thanks again for your help!!! Talk to you soon........

Danny Wright
--
Danny Wright
Daily Bread-Sales Manager
(949) 355-5098

Fwd: See the New Movie on Gordon B. Hinckley

2008-11-23T23:46:00.001-07:00

Hi Carol,

I thought you might want to send information out about the new movie on Gordon B. Hinckley. It is being released on DVD next week, but there is a special screening of it next Tuesday, November 25, at 7 pm at two theaters, in Sandy and South Jordan . The tickets are $8 and all proceeds go to the Perpetual Education Fund.

Here is the link to check it out. There is a link from that site to buy the tickets online; itʼs super easy:

http://hinckleymovie.com/

It looks awesome!

Thanks,

Janita

Davis & Dad at the cabin

2008-11-17T23:59:00.001-07:00

Man I'm hungry!

2008-11-14T13:39:00.000-07:00

Davis' 1st trick-or-treat

2008-11-13T20:51:00.000-07:00

Where are those trick-or-treaters?

2008-11-13T20:47:00.000-07:00

The Thornton clan at Dads office

2008-11-13T20:44:00.000-07:00

It's a Pumpkin Fairy!

2008-11-13T20:34:00.000-07:00

2008-11-08T15:17:00.002-07:00

Rather impressive production, Glenn. I thought it was great! It is probably better that we weren't able to come, though. Zane would have been freaked by the masks. I think you outght to do something with 'Sweeney Todd, The Demon Barber' theme next year. We've got the straight razors!!

THRILLER VS WEREWOLF ON YOUTUBE

2008-11-04T22:38:00.003-07:00

I posted a video of our Halloween thingy on youtube.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ccZ23ic3-Fs

Realize the video was taken in "nightshot" mode. That is why it is black and white and fairly fuzzy. This production was called "Thriller vs. Werewolf"

Glenn

Like mother like daughter!

2008-10-28T10:20:00.000-06:00

2008-10-15T20:11:00.002-06:00

That's right everyone! The new website is finally up. Notice if you will the new link to SALE items. Yeah, after moving into our new apartment space has become a commodity tradeable on today's sorry market, so we are liquidating, if you will, some of our older work. Just click on the link that says - SALE - (I hope that isn't too confusing) to see bargain basement pricing (for the most part). I am selling all of the prints framed, because I really need to get rid of the frames, not necessarily the prints, to free up some space in the bedroom. Heck, I might even be willing to haggle with the prices....

The web address of the site is the same as before, but here it is just in case:

http://home.comcast.net/~bngunn/

Just remember: art makes a wonderful Christmas present! or birthday present! or who just doesn't like to get art?

Davis doing the stinkbug crawl

2008-10-13T00:46:00.000-06:00

Are there ankles somewhere in there?

Davis' eating extravaganza

2008-10-13T00:44:00.000-06:00

Mmm mmm! Green beans, turkey sticks, & blueberry! Yummy!

2008-10-06T19:09:00.002-06:00

To all those needing a reminder, my birthday is on sunday, the 12th. I accept any and all monetary gifts and I do accept credit cards via Cutlery Corner. I would also accept any donations in gas. That is, gasoline. Sorry, Ben, I don't want any of your kind!

We had...the time of our l-i-i-ves!

2008-09-22T22:30:00.000-06:00

Davis' leg extension ... Already better than her mamas!

2008-09-22T22:04:00.001-06:00

Super Davis!!! (thanks to a hidden blueberry)

2008-09-22T21:59:00.000-06:00

Davis as a Peanuts character

2008-09-22T21:55:00.000-06:00

Davis helping mom "organize" the office

2008-09-22T21:53:00.001-06:00

Hang on! It's going to be a crash landing!

2008-09-22T21:50:00.001-06:00

Shower time with Davis

2008-09-22T21:48:00.001-06:00

2008-09-20T00:01:00.001-06:00

ben--what's a toad's favorite movie?

You're looking at a walker!

2008-09-17T19:06:00.000-06:00

Dinosaur Museum

2008-09-09T21:43:00.002-06:00

2008-09-04T18:42:00.001-06:00

ben!! i am withholding any mr boogedy viewing until you post sliding rock or send it to me! ransomly yours, jacqui

I have arrived!

2008-09-04T17:54:00.002-06:00

Yes, I know you've all been waiting for the day I would become blog-competent, and it's finally here. And I have to say after looking at the pictures that you are all a bunch of retards and make no official claim to be blood related. Well, except that cute little blonde who just got her hair cut, her parents must be great looking! Anyway, I won't put you to shame with any photos just yet. I'm not exactly that competent yet!

The Day We Almost Lost A Good Friend

2008-09-04T00:51:00.004-06:00

I know what you're all thinking; I'm not sure how the Mazda made it up here myself! We thought for sure that we were going to have to leave it on the side of the road. In honor of the Mazda's valiant service, we've given it a prestigious nickname: The Golden Nugget, Part Deux!

I am a Kling-on princess!

2008-09-04T00:15:00.001-06:00

Get the MapQuest Toolbar. Directions, Traffic, Gas Prices & More!

Kaycees new do

2008-09-04T00:13:00.000-06:00

Get the MapQuest Toolbar. Directions, Traffic, Gas Prices & More!

Steven Segal at the farm!!

2008-09-04T00:11:00.001-06:00

Get the MapQuest Toolbar. Directions, Traffic, Gas Prices & More!

Who is that fashion forward model?

2008-09-04T00:10:00.001-06:00

Get the MapQuest Toolbar. Directions, Traffic, Gas Prices & More!

2008-08-26T17:00:00.003-06:00

This may look like trouble to the untrained eye, but...

...yeah, forget it. Trouble. Look at Easton. Something's going down.

Just look at the honor and glory evident in Kaycee's stunning portrait. What could be more glorious than a rocket launch to celebrate the birth of a nation.

It could be a bad sign that half of the rockets limped off the field at the end of the day, but you may be a pessimist if you took that as some kind of sign.

2008-08-25T03:34:00.002-06:00

ben- you loser, post the video already! and by the way, did i happen to leave my camera in your bag?

When I Grow Up ...

2008-08-22T16:16:00.000-06:00

Yes, We are finally here ...

2008-08-22T15:57:00.003-06:00

Let the party begin! The Thornton's have finally become bloggers!

Wind Rivers Wyoming

2008-08-22T15:56:00.001-06:00

Phoenix's 1st Birthday

2008-08-22T15:41:00.000-06:00

lets see whatcha got!

2008-07-21T00:03:00.003-06:00

i also found these quality photos for submission in a new photo search. personally, i don't think anyone can top rylie in #3. people may try but that's a lot to live up to!

2008-07-21T00:00:00.002-06:00

hey ben, what are the chances that we can dig up a new picture...ad looks like a total nerd! just kidding a, but really-can't we have a change o scenery? maybe we could have a highlighted picture of the month?! in which case i want to nominate the one i have of you picking your nose!

Mom and Gary's Panama Trip

2008-07-15T10:30:00.004-06:00

07/15/08
Well, we finally got into our hotel at around 10 last night. We were delayed an hour and a half in Houston waiting for the plane to clear customs. Then the immigration and customs and car rental in Tocumen took over two hours. I had to drive to the Amador causeway at night along Balboa ave right on the waterfront. We made a couple of wrong turns and ended up in some pretty scary areas but I just followed a big city bus, figuring it would get us out eventually and drove like a panamanian so we finally made it. The causeway is totally developed commercially with big restaurants, shops and hotels. Our place is right next to the old housing for the navy bigwigs, chick said. It is pretty nice. We can look out on the yacht club and see the entrance to the canal, about a 1/2 mile from the bridge. It all looks the same to me so far. I will see as we go around. Love , Gary and Chick

07/15/08
Today we got up not really knowing what time it was here....we are only 1 hr. different from you, since no daylight savings. We decided to go down to the end of the Causeway to some shops and restaurants that we saw last night. Most were closed but we had a Subway for lunch. I guess the most interesting thing to me has been how much Spanish I have had to use!!! Never have ordered completely in Spanish before, but did it again tonight at Friday's (attached to our hotel). Our cuisine was on the trusted side today, but I had lots of papaya and passionfruit juice for breakfast. (Also forgot how soggy pastries can get in the tropics.) Also had a mango that I gleaned -fell off the tree at my feet - in one of our stops - it was wonderful!!! We also went into Balboa and took pictures of the chapel (surrounded by a white wrought iron fence now) and the YMCA where I was baptized. There are shops in the Y now, so we did some shopping for short people. Grandpa is really proud and excited to show you his prizes! Then we went on a little drive and took a picture of the admin bldg, Goethals memorial, Balboa elementary, BHS, and tried to find Grandma and Grandpa Bouche's last house on Ancon Hill, but I couldn't remember where to turn at the Governor's house, so we ended up going down by Gorgas (the hospital where Bud and I were born) Then we came back to the causeway to go to the Smithsonian compound that is here. Li ke I told Chase, we saw lots of animals who were not bother by us and lots of plants that I recognized...sobralias, coffee, almond trees, saw grass, etc. We sat and watched several trips passing under the Bridge on their way to the Pacific. Pretty relaxing for the most part, since I wasn't driving. We can drink the water here, so not too much of a problem yet. Gary is even picking up on some Spanish! We have been impressed with how well things look, although there are also some bldgs in obvious disrepair, there are many new very nice bldgs, too.
I have to say when we were landing, it brought tears to my eyes to see so many things that I had known so well - even in the dark - and it made me miss Grandma. Thanks to all of you for your thoughtfulness. We are loving it and wishing you could all be here to share it with us...we miss you!! Hope everything is going well there.
Much love, US
P.S. You should see my humid hair - YIKES!!! And I have a mosquito bite on my cheek, because I put repellent everywhere but on my face!

07/16/08
Today we got up earlier and went to see the temple. It was quite an experience. As we got in the room to wait for the introductory film, my eyes filled with tears. I finally got myself back together and was OK until we got to the celestial room then started again. The temple and the grounds are immaculate, serene, and beautiful. The temple sits west of the Cardenas Chapel next to the Cemetery. We tried to take representative pictures (and would be sending them now, except we forgot the cord to connect to the computer and have not been able to find one to buy). They have used many Minerva Teichert paintings in their decor. The furnishings have been carved from local woods (dark and rich) and look elegant with neutral toned fabrics. The flower arrangements are full of tropicals appropriate to the area. The baptismal font rests on marble oxen carved with intricate details. The rooms are full of light banked with stained glass windows. They are using a film, but move from the creation room (painted to match the surrounding jungle areas) to the simple, but elegant world room to the celestial room. There is a fountain outside with impressive landscaping. Nearby there is a large two-story building that will be used as a "hotel" of sorts with a central kitchen facility for members to stay in as they come to the temple to perform ordinances. The missionary we were talking to thought that the charge was just $12. I was so touch ed and impressed.
After the temple, we stopped at the cemetery. My friends and I used to play in there when I lived in Los Rios, building forts in the sugar cane and the mango trees. I also knew that my grandfather Bouche's brother Gaston (died at 15 of "swamp fever") was reburied there when they moved the graves from Mt. Hope Cemetery on the Atlantic side. As the lady who helped me find where he was buried was handing me the info and a map, she said, "By the way, there is another Butcher buried here - Jewell." She was married to my Grandfather's brother, Henry. This was interesting, because just last month when we were cleaning out my office and then again just last week, I came across her picture, and even more interesting, I knew who it was! Grandpa said that she had died in her 40s and that she was originally from New Jersey, so I automatically assumed that she was buried there. It was a real surprise to find her in Corozal - also a transfer from Mt. Hope. I think she must be trying to tell me something! I took pictures of the graves and of the corotu tree I used to climb.
Then we went to Los Rios. Man! Things sure shrink as you get older. I was surprised to find that the houses were much smaller and closer together than I think of them in my mind. Of course there was much more vegetation; after all there is a jungle out there. I took pictures of both of my houses and my Grandf ather's house in Diablo and my elementary/junior high school. Gary was impressed that I could remember where the streets went after all these years. He has been a great driver - competes well with all the really crazy dudes behind the wheels of the other vehicles!!!
After the photo memory session, we went to the Albrook Mall for lunch. YIKES! Gary thinks there are probably 300-400 stores. It took us a while to find the food court - the main one. It probably has 20 restaurants on the main floor and almost that many more on the second floor! Gary had a hamburger combo, and I had a Panamanian panini - 6" ham and cheese with mayo and ketchup? :( - and a yummy flan from a bakery/deli with a drink ($2.25). We wandered around for a LONG time, looking for a cord for the camera and just seeing everything that was there. Those of you with kids going back to school would love to have been there to see some of the stores - shirt and jeans outfits for 3.99 and tons of things for less than $5 - even shoes!!! While we were there, the afternoon monsoon hit, no kidding. It is rainy season and today it lived up to its name with thunder and a downpour that sounded like hail that lasted for about an hour, reducing to a normal rainstorm. There was even flooding in some areas. So we were happy just to be exploring the monster mall. We stayed long enough that we decided to eat dinner there, too in another smaller20food court at a place called Lanos y Carbon. Gary wanted a T-bone ($7.50), but they were out, so he had a NY that must have been 16 oz. for $12. I had a filet for $11, which was really 2 (on a dinner plate larger that the Chinet plates we use), smothered in a mushroom sauce with tons of mushrooms. Then on separate plates, we each got a huge serving of rice pilaf, salad, a biscuit-type "tortilla," and 4" section of ripe plantain sauteed in butter. Not realizing how big the meal was going to be, I had ordered a side of plantanos. We brought those and my other steak back with us and left a lot of rice!! It was dark and still raining when we came back, but Gary got us here safely. "Interesting" is not even an apt description of driving here.
There are so many things that come back to me - the glue on the envelopes sticking without being licked, soap melting in the shower, towels that never dry on their own, soggy things, moldy cement squishy red mud, stickers in the grass, HUMIDITY that makes you cold in the AC, nice skin without lotion, the siren that still goes off at 12 noon. Now that one was weird, because we were standing in front of the chapel when it went off, and I automatically looked at my watch. I couldn't believe it after all these years! I have smelled plumerias, gardenias, and ginger to death, sucked honey from ixora and another red flower that we used to do as kids, picked up mangos from the20ground that I never did as a child because we climbed the trees, and I am loving this!
Much love,
US

07/17/08
Today was a very busy day. We started by driving over the bridge of the americas toward Howard AFB. It is a four lane road now with many billboards. We could not get on Howard, only people who work there can go on so no visit to our old house. So we drove out to Vera Cruz, a beach town on the backside of Howard and walked on the beach and mom found some shells and bought a bracelet from some kid selling them on the beach. Then we drove to Miraflores locks and went to the visitor center, museum, movie and watched some huge container ships transit. I mean huge, 1000-1200 containers each. Pretty impressive. We drove around and looked at some other old houses that chick used to live in, and some of her relatives. Then we went to Gamboa, about 20 miles out of the city where they use to live by Taberts. We went to a place called the Gamboa Rainforest Resort where on Sat we will go on a jungle canopy tour and monkey island boat ride. Check it out a gamboaresort.com. Should be cool. Tomorrow we do a half day canal transit that takes us thru miraflores and pedro miguel locks and lets us off in Gamboa, to bus back. It takes from about 9 to 3 o clock. We went to the mall again to eat, there are 32 places in the food court. It is an awesome mall and really busy, like the saturday before xmas every day. We ran into 10 missionaries eating dinner, so we bought them dessert at Dairy Queen. They were half gringos and half latin american. Fort Clayton is very well kept up, as are most places they can use, with others just being abandoned. All in all, I think they are doing a good job of developing as a country, just need more time. I got stung by a bee on my tongue. It climbed in my pepsi can at miraflores, and when i got to the bottom swig, it stung me. My tongue is a little swollen, just like after the dentist, so i have talked funny all day. We just sat on the patio by the pool and watched five ships transitting the canal. So close we could almost hit them with a rock. It is cool. Are things going ok with everyone? Write me back. Gary

07/18/08
Today we went on a half transit of the canal on the Islamorada - a restored wooden yacht brought to Panama in the late 50s by Steve McQueen that was originally built for J. P. Morgan, a millionaire. We used to go to Taboga Island on that boat when I was in high school, and my class had several parties on it, as well. We went to Gamboa, then returned on a bus to our hotel. It was fun to go through the canal with Gary and see it through "new eyes." Rested for a few, then went back to pick up a few more souvenirs at the Y. Tonight we ate at Mi Ranchito - at the end of the causeway under a bohio. I ate a carimaniola, corvina, and yuca. We got ice cream cones and sat on a bench and watched the boats outside the breakwater waiting to enter the canal. I have really been impressed with how well almost everything is taken care of in what used to be the Zone. It is really spotless in all public places. There are employees on the spot everywhere to immediately take care of anything.
Gary read all the emails and cards for his birthday, because we are leaving early to go to the Rainforest stuff in Gamboa. He was really surprised and loved them all. Thank you so much for your sweet show of love for him.
Love, Us

Keyhole Canyon, Zion (At The End)

2008-07-11T15:36:00.002-06:00

Steph and I have been rapelling and canyoneering with our friends Art and Sierra for a couple of years now. It is awesome! If anyone wants to try it, let us know!

when i grow up i want to be a.....

2008-07-03T00:30:00.006-06:00

i noticed as i was looking for some pictures , that chase seemed to have a recurring theme-or two--

nudity and nosepicking... go figure.

hiltons memorial day

2008-07-02T23:42:00.006-06:00

our memorial day didn't quite go as we had planned. we started on our annual trip to moab, it was great...until we blew the transmission in the jeep. we got to the top of spanish fork canyon and then we came home. so, this is what we did instead...

went to fremont indian state park and looked for petroglyphs (it wasn't hard),
did jr ranger and geocached

hung out in the pit house for a while..

froze our cans off in the teepees outside bryce canyon (and happily! we've wanted to do that for ten years- the teepees, not so much the freezing.)
rested...
then finished our hike to mossy cave.
hunted for petrified wood and idols (call chase DR jones!) geocached
AND did jr. ranger at the petrified forest state park in escalante
found some devils in devil's garden (i think they followed us home!)

ground some corn, did a little geocaching and jr ranger at anasazi state park in boulder
and even found some snow on the way home. all in 3 days, whew.
we did every junior ranger program we found along the way--even jake and tucker who
were way too cool. fremont, grand staircase (2, one in escalante and one in cannonville,) petrified forest and anasazi, we are all rangered up! just let us know if you need a ranger and we've got it covered. so who needs moab?