Clark's Classroom

Our Christmas Trip!

2011-12-26T19:39:00.000-08:00

We love taking a family vacation between Christmas and New Years, and this year we have rented a home in Mesa, Arizona. We love having the family around and enjoying warmer weather.

The Madsen Christmas Party

2011-12-26T19:18:00.000-08:00

For many years, our Christmas celebrations have included the Madsen Family Party held annually at Academy West, Pat's gym. This year, the number of attendees was higher than average. It was great to see everyone and have the chance to get caught up.

Mom and Amy's baby, Josie. Mom calls her "Little Jo" because she doesn't like the name "Josie".

Winn with one of his youngest grandchildren, Jodie's baby.Kids of all ages like to play volleyball with the gigantic ball. That's Carter in the middle.Preston played a version of soccer with that ball.Amy, Bob, Erin, and Kristin chat it up.Vic, Melanie, and Keri catch up on each others' lives.
An annual favorite is the foam pit!

The Preston-Face

2011-11-14T21:13:00.000-08:00

Preston has a wonderful face - I can't take my eyes off him!

My Billings Visit!

2011-11-14T20:54:00.000-08:00

Judy and I visited at her house, taking a Phase Two picture with the Tele-Tubby!Kim, Jody, Julie (and her grandson), Sandee, and Marjie - what fabulous friends!

Hody is just wee next to Stu and Dane

Stu takes a quick shot of his two moms and Dane-erd!

Bffs!

Mr Finley says Hello!

Fabulous ladies' luncheon at Julie's house in the absolute hinterland!

We Love Nana-Friday!

2011-10-22T20:13:00.000-07:00

Preston looking through the glass window into the officePreston is learning how to pet Betty softly and gently...
This boy can find water EVERYWHERE!

Cleaning Project!

2011-10-09T19:58:00.000-07:00

Our kitchen pantry was clogged with stuff and completely unorganized.I pulled everything out and purged before putting anything back.Slowly progress is made!Organized! And everything off the floor. I love it!

The IOL Team Visits Cortez!

2011-10-09T19:30:00.001-07:00

IOL is short for Inside Out Learning, which is a program of teaching techniques designed to work within the established curriculum. The teaching techniques engage students and help them take ownership of their learning. IOL techniques are taught by amazing educators in Kenya and Uganda. The founder of IOL, Marilynn, brought them to the US for more training and Cortez was on the training schedule. Kathy traveled with the US team when we went to Kenya in 2009. She and Lilian are old friends1Carter enjoyed reading to Lilian, Dorcas, and Jane. They were amused by Carter's lively antics!Stephen is the father of two sons and liked mellow Preston.I watched the LDS Women's Broadcast with my African friends.Our relaxed feet!

Our Tour to the Ute Farm

2011-10-09T19:09:00.000-07:00

Michael tells us about the irrigation system.Lilian with the Stinger Stackers in the background.Dorcas in the tractor.
Jane with the center-pivot sprinkler.That's me with Erin, Lilian, and Emily posing on the Ute bench.Stephen takes a break on the Ute bench.

Cultural Exchange at Newcomb Elementary

2011-10-02T19:58:00.000-07:00

We traveled to Newcomb, NM, to visit a high performing Elementary School on the Navajo Reservation. The day started with an assembly, and Marilynn introduced our guests.

Abena, the former principal of Newcomb Elementary, greets the audience.

Dorcas takes the lead.

Dorcas, Lilian, and Jane are ready to perform in their native costumes.

Lilian and Dorcas share a traditional Kenyan dance.

A bright-eyed group of students.

Newcomb students perform for us.

Beautiful girl doing the fancy shawl dance.
Navajo boy dances for us.

The tribal drummers play for both dancers.

The Africans, Abena, and the Navajo dancers.

Our group!

Visiting with Dr Houser

2011-10-02T19:37:00.000-07:00

On the last day of our visit, we went to talk to Dr Houser, the Superintendent of Montezuma Cortez Re-1 District. He grew up in Kenya where his parents were Baptist missionaries. He and Stephen had lots in common as they are both District Superintendents.

Dorcas loves the Colorado-style photo-op!

Kathy G poses with Dorcas, Lilian, Jane, and Stephen.
Dr Houser gave our friends books of their choice from his personal collection.
He also autographed each one!
Stephen gets comfortable behind Dr Houser's desk

A Painting Project at Erin's House

2011-09-18T20:37:00.000-07:00

Bryce's brother had an extra ticket to the BYU - Utah game, so Bryce dashed up to Provo (too bad the game was so horrific for Cougar fans...). In his absence, Erin decided it was the perfect time to paint their bedroom.

Erin layers on the first coat of wonderful green paint, called Hosta.She enlisted my help because I am an excellent source of free labor. I tape and edge - really! These are "before" pictures:
After the paint, but before the bed is moved in. This is Erin's clever headboard - she bought a louvered door and attached it to another door to make it tall enough to be seen when the bed is in place. It is the perfect width for a king-sized bed. Actually Erin and Bryce are not large enough to require a king, but they often have small, wiggly boys sharing their bed with them! Erin white-washed the dresser and is planning on a beach-themed room. I promise more pictures as the design progresses.

Carter Spends the Day!

2011-09-18T20:20:00.000-07:00

Due to Parent - Teacher Conferences, Carter didn't have school on Thursday. Instead, he spent the day with me! We went to the Library for Story-time and made strawberry freezer jam.
When we work in the kitchen, Carter likes to wear the T-Rex apron - it's manly, yet functional! This video shows Carter's culinary skills.

Preston and Carter

2011-09-11T19:08:00.000-07:00

I spent Saturday morning with my grandsons while Erin and Bryce went to the Temple in Monticello. Preston awoke first, had breakfast, and played for quite a while before Carter came to life!

Preston reads a book - that warms a former school teacher's heart!Carter and Preston in Carter's room.Carter is certainly handsome in his Mickey Mouse ears!

Remembering Summer 2011

2011-09-07T15:57:00.000-07:00

One of the things we have enjoyed about living in Cortez is having "basement dwellers". For the last several years, out-of-state Farm laborers have lived with us while working for Lenny on the Ute Farm. This year was probably the best EVER with Chalene, Brooke, and Gwen.

Chalene has a fabulous pair of rubber boots that she loves. Truth be told, we all tease her about them, but they do the job. Obviously, her feet never get wet. But I bet they get sweaty!I was pressed into service when two Stinger tires were needed and there was no one else to drive over to Richfield, Utah. Five hours over and five hour back.... The trip over was uneventful, but the trip back was more exciting because of a huge gully-washer of a thunderstorm. I pulled over when I could no longer see the road. I listened to a book on cd suggested by one of the girls listed above. It was called "Cloaked" and was well-written and entertaining enough to keep me in my seat for 10 hours! I know it's hard to see, but that's two huge tires in the back of our pick-up.Stu was home from his hay projects in the Dakotas just long enough to attach Road Rally decals to Molly, his Mach I Mustang. He and his former roommate, Charlie, drove fast for 2000 miles. He thought it was fun. It certainly was the high point of a rather dismal summer for him.

Summer Fun!

2011-07-20T19:48:00.001-07:00

On the 4th of July, after participating in the Cortez Burst Triathalon, Erin decided it was the perfect time to paint the living room! The wall behind the new armoir with it's new coat of red looks fabulous. The living room is a soft yellow, with the dining room a shade darker.

End-of Quarter Mary Kay Luau

2011-06-19T19:10:00.001-07:00

The party was on our Party Patio!

Katie is lovin' the pedicure! AAAAh!

Lianna hulas for us.

Erin takes care of consultant recognition!

Our Darling Boys!

2011-06-19T18:53:00.000-07:00

Preston and Carter love to wrestle! Carter is gentle with his little brudder.

Preston has a merry face and likes to wrinkle up his nose when he smiles. They are a delightful pair!

My Sad Toe

2011-06-19T18:43:00.001-07:00

I smacked my pinky toe on one of the stools downstairs and am sure I broke it. OOOOW! Anyway, it's on the mend now, but I still have trouble getting the puffy thing in a shoe!

We get Carter for THREE Days!

2011-01-16T15:17:00.000-08:00

Uncle Stu picked Carter up from pre-school and took him to Safeway. They bought Oreos (double-stuff), chocolate milk, a Mustang magazine for Stu, and a Thomas activity book for Carter.

Peanut butter and apples are a little healthier than Oreos!What's more fun than spaghetti?

Got his jammies on and Lightening McQueen slippers - sweeeeet!

Carter likes to pretend he's a puppy. Too bad the only dog he knows well enough to emulate is Betty!

Carter's a great assistant. He helped get the frozen bread dough packaged up using the Food Saver.

Time for a haircut. Trena came over with her clippers, leaving enough fur on the floor to create several small puppies!

Then, into the tub for a well-deserved bath to wash off all those pesky hairs!

Family Pictures!

2010-12-16T18:28:00.000-08:00

Our Ostler-friends mentioned that I needed to update my blog in their Christmas card... I guess quite a few things have happened in our lives since May 4th, the date of my last posting. In fact,we had our family pictures taken about two weeks ago, and here are some of the better ones.

This is the picture we sent with our Christmas cards:

Preston Payne Tanner is 6 months old!

2010-12-16T17:55:00.000-08:00

Isn't that a fabulous face!

When we had our family photos taken, Preston was just starting to sit without help.

Yesterday, on his 6-month-birthday, he was sitting like a smug Buddha.

Or is he a flour sack in dinosaur jammies?

Carter turns 4!

2010-12-16T17:40:00.000-08:00

One of the greatest things about Erin and her little family living in Cortez is that we get to celebrate all of life's special occasions! On Saturday, November 27th, Carter Clark Tanner turned four years old! Papa calls him a "missile in tennis shoes", and that's a very accurate description!

Carter is a skillful hair-grower and says that he likes his "hippy hair"!
We sure love that happy face!

Preparing for the annual Parade of Lights

2010-12-16T17:22:00.000-08:00

Every year, there is an evening parade called the Parade of Lights in Cortez. It is always held on the first Saturday of December. Some years, it's snowy and cold, but this year it was very pleasant. Since we moved here we have commented that our hay company, Peaks to Plains, should have a parade entry. This year we finally did it!

Stu stringing lights around the Stinger bale stacker.
Erin and Carter used lots of ribbon to make the bale look like a Christmas gift.
Sure looks like a Christmas present!

A cattle drive right here in Cortez!

2010-05-04T20:25:00.000-07:00

While out running errands, I spotted a herd of cattle - right here in Cortez!

Must be lunch time or break time...

There are two cows outside my car window!

Our Empty Nest is Overflowing!

2010-04-11T20:29:00.000-07:00

Stu and Carter are hangin in the basement. Stu has left North Dakota for warmer southern climes and will be working with Vaughn and Peaks to Plains Hay.Our garage is full of stuff - we believe a garage should hold cars... This situation will be resolved soon when Erin and Bryce move into their new home. Stu wants to move out quickly, also!Bryce and Carter enjoy a breakfast of Marshmallow Mateys, much to Erin's chagrin!

Erin, Morgan, Stu, and our new friend, Ryan, enjoy after dinner conversation. I love a full table!
Trena had a bothersome sliver in her finger and asked Bryce for relief.
Bryce brought out the cool Eye Doctor magnifying device and extracted the splinter.

Hooray for Erin's new Mary Kay car!

2009-11-05T21:02:00.000-08:00

Twenty pink balloons decorate the new Chevy Malibu! Carter's got a balloon, too
Here's Erin with those pink balloons!
Erin's excited to sign the papers

Signing the papers...20 seconds later, she's ready to roll!

The men are excited, too!

Stuffing the balloons into the trunk

Quick, slam the trunk!

That's a happy girl in her shiny FREE car!

Carter takes a moment to settle into a Carter-sized car

I'm a Domestic Diva!

2009-11-01T14:34:00.000-08:00

I have wonderful pleated blinds on my living room windows, but decided we also needed draperies. Sarah's husband, Brett, welded the longest curtain rods ever - it spans both side-by-side windows. I sewed panels of fabulous taffeta-like fabric. Pat and I found it at a fabric store in her neighborhood.
I pressed the hems and they stayed put without pinning. All I had to do was press and sew!
The first panel is up - it's the one that covers the space between the two windows.

All three panels are finished on the set of windows that look out on Ute Mountain. The panels are attached to the rods by ribbon. Seven tabs of ribbon are sewn to the top of each panel. I bought all the ribbon our Walmart had and drove to Durango to get another spool of ribbon. Unfortunately, I still need three more spools of ribbon to finish the last set of drapes. Perhaps I'll find some in Grand Junction this week. I don't like unfinished projects! But I LOVE the looks of these drapes!

There's Nothing Better Than Having Carter Here!

2009-10-23T19:47:00.000-07:00

Carter walks with his Papa out to the mailbox

Carter's off like a shot! He loves puzzles
Carter stands outside the tractor with his John Deere hat pulled low.
Carter prepares for work by settling into the buddy seat

Carter also likes to bake cookies!

After carefully cleaning off the cookie dough, Carter informed his Mom, "It's so tasty!"

Carter and Papa baled together for about an hour and a half.

Remembering Bo-Cat

2009-10-23T19:29:00.001-07:00

Bo was handsome, dignified cat, as well as being a tough fighter. Bo loved being in small spaces
Bo moved with us from Billings to Cortez, then to the new house

What an amazing cat!

Bo slipped into the house and found a comfy box!

Bo in the b0x

Rest in peace, old friend.

Carter's Here!

2009-10-19T13:58:00.000-07:00

Carter's got the tool belt on and his John Deere hat in place -

he's ready to work with Papa. The tool belt is loaded and locked on...

Let's get to work!
He is a fast runner! According to Carter, his shoes are made for runnin', but his boots are made for walkin'

He loves this wooden pyramid puzzle.

Have you EVER seen a cuter bicycle!

Evidence of my Willy-Nilly Ways

2009-10-11T19:27:00.000-07:00

During my year's leave of absence from school, I am enjoying one adventure after another!

Erin, Carter, and I went to the Clark Family Reunion in Soda Springs, Idaho, over the Labor Day weekend. We stayed in a cool,

re-furbished turn-of-the-century hotel.Earlier in August, I was in Memphis when Erin debuted as a Mary Kay Sales Director. She is pictured with her adopted Director,

the amazing Carol.
The week that July turned into August found me in Dallas

at Mary Kay Seminar.
Last week, I zipped to Grand Junction to visit the Tanners. We went to a wonderful bagel place in downtown Junction. They have a wooden train set that entertains Carter for ages!
Cute Carter with the train
Carter enjoys the tasty pumpkin chocolate chip muffin.

We spent some time chillin' on that back patio.

Carter has gotten so tall and talkative!

My little friend poses at the back door.

After spending some time with Mom in SLC, I went to the new Oquirrh Mountain temple. Then Pat and I did some serious shopping!

The Streets of Mukono, Uganda

2009-10-04T20:29:00.000-07:00

Two guards outside our hotel
Rain makes the streets muddy

Out on the streets in the early morning

Two little girls in uniform run to school

From the car window

Four boys push the stalled school bus

Motorcycles are rented as taxis

Bicycles are used to haul many different things

Motorcycles dart all over the place

We couldn't figure out how the passenger stayed on the motorcycle-taxi. It looked like they weren't even holding on

Kathy poses with a motorcycle-taxi and passengers

Two-wheeled wagon

Skinny poles are used in many types of building

Mukono Training

2009-10-04T20:03:00.001-07:00

This is the location of our training in Mukono

Working in small groups

I'm teaching the tangram lesson

Participants stay after to mop and squeezee the tile floor

Kathy, me, Dr Christopher, Michelle, Marilynn

The teachers at the Mukono training

Clowning around with the Old Woman puppet

Our First Day in Uganda

2009-10-04T19:48:00.001-07:00

Our hotel room, complete with mosquito nets
Just outside our window
A closer look...

Kathy outside the LDS church where we attended services on Sunday. Our training was also held here Monday through Friday.

Kathy, me, Marilynn, Frank (Lilian's fiance'), Lilian, and Michelle

Another view of the church

Angelo, a medical student

Angelo's darling son

Mombassa Crocodile Heaven!

2009-10-04T19:35:00.000-07:00

What nasty thick bodies!
The smiling croc is actually cooling itself through its open mouth

Albino crocs are very rare...

Very sinister snoutsWe are posing with a young croc and an egg

Michelle is enjoying the cuddly croc

Kathy's not afraid of large thick snakes!

IOL Day!

2009-10-03T21:49:00.000-07:00

IOL logo

The poster announcing IOL day with Marilynn, Mwadudu, Lilian

Kenyan rapper

Singers

The dancers pose with Marilynn

Steven and Marilynn cut the cake symbolizing the partnership between the schools and IOL

Marilynn shares bits of cake with a child

Me in a kanga Michelle is ceremoniously clothed in a kanga

Marilynn in her kanga

Steven

Mwadudu, Michelle, and me outside the school

Dancers at the celebration

School Tour

2009-10-03T21:15:00.000-07:00

Students gather before school for Morning Music and

Gratitude Moment

A holding tank collects rainwater using pipes from the downspouts
Many, many trees have been planted. They are harvested and sold, and the money is used for the school.
Some of the trees

Tiny, little trees newly planted

The tree nursery

The school's motto and mission statement

One of the classrooms

The assembly area

Playground

The children gather for Morning Music and the Gratitude Moment

The Indian Ocean

2009-10-03T10:30:00.001-07:00

We stopped at a pleasant spot right on the beach
The water was very blue
I'm standing in the Indian Ocean - the water is warm!

That's my foot in the rather murky water of the Indian Ocean

Kathy and her new best friend, the boat captain

Lilian and Michelle

Michelle in the ocean as the sun starts setting

Another look at the little eatery on the edge of the beach

Sightseeing in Kenya

2009-10-03T09:36:00.000-07:00

Along the road we traveled to get to the training site
Bush buck

Small group of impala

A monkey scampering up a tree

I am amazed at the heavy burdens women carry on their heads

The sable antelope is found only in Simba Hills, Kenya

Our vehicle took us over many rough roads without shaking apart!

All of us enjoyed a short game drive

Mr Baboon is looking at us with a wary eye

Daily life in a Kenyan village

She is carrying a load on her head and a baby slung on her back

We met these ladies along the roadside

Although it's difficult to see, an elephant is lurking in the trees

A toddler outside his house

The containers on these women's heads are filled with water - can you imagine how heavy they must be?!

Imagine - cell coverage in the midst of Kenyan wilderness

A look at the school and students

2009-10-02T09:03:00.000-07:00

A typical classroom in this school
Kids EVERYWHERE will ham it up for the photographer!

School rules are painted on the walls of the buildings.

Content-specific info is also painted on the walls so pupils can learn outside the classroom as well as inside.

Two or more pupils share a desk.

Cute little girls pose by a bicycle - their shaved heads are part of the dress code for primary-aged students

Kindergarten

That's me with a group of kindergarten kids

The kindergarten teacher and some of her students

A covered assembly area

This amazing music teacher encouraged beautiful, exuberant singing

This pretty girl with braids is probably Indian.

Kathy teaches "The Old Woman who Swallowed a Fly"

What a fabulous face!

A 5-year-old We are called IOL - Inside Out Learning - Strength from Within

This is an IOL school, and they have painted our logo on the school

Marilynn with a young girl

Michelle with kindergarteners

Lunch consists of reconstituted dry corn that has been boiled in water with peas or beans

Another look at lunch

Kinango District Training

2009-09-28T20:39:00.000-07:00

Walking majestically...
Joseph show how to re-assemble the tangram.
"What are the properties of a triangle?"

Teachers explain their thinking.

Marilynn makes a point.

The teachers perform "The Old Woman Who Swallowed a Fly".

This is our venue for the Kinango District Training.

Marilynn and Steven

The Morale-Booster leads a dance.

The old woman puppet and the animals she swallowed...

Elizabeth working with the teachers.

A couple of the teachers work together.

Barisa and Kathy teach the line dance.

The number line dance.

"Negative to the left..."

Mr. Owl helps teach the properties of integers. A teacher adds negative numbers to the vertical number line.

Simba Hills Lodge

2009-09-28T20:17:00.000-07:00

Simba Hills Lodge was like staying in a tree house! What a wonderful place to stay after long days of teaching.

Kathy and Lilian

From the balcony

Kathy with incredible scenery behind her.

Our favorite server

This little guy joined us for breakfast everyday.

A view of the exterior

What a fabulous bridge!

Lilian and Barisa

Kathy, me, Michelle, Lilian, Marilynn

Our rooms were spacious and comfortable.

Starting the trip to Africa

2009-09-27T19:01:00.000-07:00

Our photographer at the SLC airport was not very skilled...

On the plane ready for 30 hours of travel.
Marilynn, Michelle, and KathyWe spent 8.5 hours right here from Minneapolis to Amsterdam, then another 8 hours from Amsterdam to Nairobi, and finally an hour from Nairobi to Mombassa. Ugh

In Kenya, we stayed at the beautiful Shimba Hills Lodge - it was like being part of Swiss Family Robinson and living in a tree.

Mary Kay Seminar

2009-08-09T20:40:00.000-07:00

I went to Mary Kay Seminar in Dallas the last week of July.

We (Brenda, Stephanie, Nira, and Kristi) are

outside the Convention Center.

We visited MK Corporate Offices.
Looking up
In front of Mary Kay's office
Erin is a Princess of Sales =)

Susan and Erin with the sign-holder

Brenda, Susan, Erin, and me

Loads of live entertainment

I went to outstanding classes and enjoyed listening to remarkable women speak on a variety of topics.

My 35th Class Reunion

2009-08-09T19:43:00.000-07:00

I stayed with Alda. The Pond

Alda's house
The Snake River

Peg, Fran, Juliene, and I do lunch at Chiz's!

The Sand Bar

Fresh white sand

In July, I attended my Class Reunion. It was great reconnecting with classmates.Me and Sue
Juliene, Steve, and Mr Parker

Dean

Gayle and Teresa

Francie

Peg

Malee

Wade

Jan

Linda

Fran

Melanie

Gary and Wade

Max

Kay, Linda, Michelle

Getting Ready to Work at the Ute Farm

2009-07-05T18:32:00.000-07:00

The balers are readyThe baler operators are almost ready! Robby and John pose for the camera, while Robby finishes his sandwich...
Benny and Jack make a necessary repair on the rake. And they're off!

Cutting the Hay

2009-07-05T18:17:00.000-07:00

Rotary swathers cut the alfalfa and lay it down in tidy rows.

Take a look at the swather coming toward you...

Raking

2009-07-05T17:52:00.000-07:00

After the swathers have cut the alfalfa, the rake operators combine two windrows into one. Benny is checking the rake to make sure it's in superb working order.

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

The Hesston 4790 baler hooked to the New Holland TJ245 tractor. Carter loves the Blue Tractors!The bale on the ground was just dropped off the shoot - notice the small cloud of dust hovering above it.

The alfalfa is packaged into a 3' by 4' bale that's about 8 feet long and has six strings of baler twine holding it together. The bales weigh between 1,200 and 1,500 pounds.

Stacking the Bales

2009-07-05T12:17:00.000-07:00

To stack the bales in the stack-yard, this machine is used. It requires quite a bit of skill to operate it properly.

First, the Stinger picks up a bale...

Then, the bales are set up vertically in two steps...

Gardening

2009-06-23T20:58:00.000-07:00

We got the second square foot garden finished =) These sturdy tomatoes need a support.

I feel optimistic about the watermelon and pumpkin plants!

We lost some plants over the winter...

Three dead blue spirea out front - deceased!

We replaced them with short-to-the-ground Mugo Pines:

Looks like a circus act!

2009-06-21T21:37:00.000-07:00

I determined it was time to re-stain the wood trim around the windows, garage, front pillars, etc. The project was easy except for the second story windows above the walk-out basement... I swallowed my fear and scaled the ladder with brush and bucket. Trena said she'd call 911, if necessary. It's good to have a Trena handy.
Inside the house looking out at the focused (poorly-paid) laborer.

Summer projects

2009-06-21T21:08:00.001-07:00

My new birthday bike with comfort seat, taller handle bars, a water-bottle holder, fenders, cool little bag behind the seat, and a helmet. I freely admit I look goofy in the helmet, but I am committed to safety!

I planted some trailing petunias and marigolds in the pots out front. Some of the ground cover I planted last year is making a comeback!
My first attempt at creating a square foot garden - check out the official website at squarefootgardening.com

Looking down onton the 4x4 garden from the deck. I have created a deer and bunny proof cage to protect my lucious plants!

The school year ends

2009-06-21T20:53:00.000-07:00

As the school year came to a close, Hayden Webb, one of our favorite hay-boys EVER came for a post-mission visit.He brought his brother-in-law, Anna's husband, and brothers Larsen and Stewart. We tried to encourage them to leave at least one of their group with us, but were unsuccessful!

Sure Sign of Spring in Colorado!

2009-05-03T20:16:00.000-07:00

On the way home from Church today, I came upon a cattle drive!
Cows and their babies wandered down both sides of the road probably headed to their summer pasture.

A shot of the Ole West!

Save some Green

2009-03-17T06:30:00.000-07:00

Enjoy the Luck O' the Irish... Save some GREEN!
visit me online @ www.marykay.com/

Golden Olive, Ivy Garden, or Lemongrass Mineral Eye colors $5 each (reg. 6.50)

Mint Bliss Foot and Leg Lotion $8 (reg. 10.00)

Indulge Soothing Eye Gel $13 (reg. $15)

**non green items available too!**

Call or email
970-759-6446
kathyclark123@marykay.com

I've been "tagged"!

2009-03-05T19:08:00.000-08:00

My good friend, Hody, was featured on Just Joan's blog. Joan had singled out Hody's picture by looking in her "My Pictures" folder and selecting the 6th picture in the 6th file. Then Hody foll0wed the same pattern and located a picture of me (with ridiculously puffy hair) languishing on Dawn's couch in Rocky Point, Mexico. She posted the picture, recording wonderful memories and great photos.

See Jody's blog at http://theexspensivedogdoor.blogspot.com/

Now it's my turn...

The 6th photo in the 6th file in "My Pictures" folder is:

....from Erin and Bryce's wedding !
Erin Clark Tanner is my favorite daughter and I am thrilled to post some pictures of her! She has a wonderful face for the camera.Erin was 8 years old here, and this is her baptism day with all four of her grandparents. Erin was always a sweet girl to her grandparents and enjoyed visiting them.

High school graduation was the start of a whole new world. And that new world included working with her dad at the Ute Farm right after graduation.

The Farm became an important part of her life, and she made the effort to introduce Carter to straw fields last summer.
The date on this photo is March 10, 2004 - the day Erin returned from the mission to Tucson, Arizona. We missed her tremendously and were awed with the woman who returned to us.

Erin was the quintessential Bride Doll on her wedding day in August of 2005.

She was just the cutest pregnant girl - too bad she felt crummy 90% of the time!

Thanks, Erin, for bringing Bryce and Carter into our lives. Having you and your little family come with us to Mazatlan is the high point of our year! Erin is the most patient and loving mama in the world. Look at the devotion on her face.

I love you and am looking forward to having you west of the Mississippi again!

So now I tag Erin, Carol, and Stu, (I don't know any more bloggers...)

1 Go to"my pictures" pick the 6th file

2. 6th photo and tell about them

3. and then tag 6 more people.

It's Great to Thaw out in Mexico!

2009-01-20T19:59:00.000-08:00

The happy fam sightseeing like tourists! Carter with his Indy-hat
The Carter-man loves fish.

The sinister pelican has his eye on Bryce!

Fun on the slide!

Downtown Mazatlan

2009-01-20T19:43:00.001-08:00

The cathedral

One of many statues along the beach in Mazatlan.

Overlooking the ocean

Bryce showing his guns atop the look-out.

Snouts at the Mercado

Carter in Mexico

2009-01-20T19:17:00.000-08:00

Carter-man is ready for any adventure!Swimmin' with Uncle Stu Carter holds onto Stu's ears to keep himself steady.

Ridin' the Stu-train.

"Run, Carter, Stu's right behind you!"

Mom said, "Don't throw sand..." Hmmm. Looks like Carter is throwing sand!

Carter and his Papa in the chilly pool.

Stu "teaching" Carter to swim.

Christmas Vacation in Mazatlan

2009-01-20T18:52:00.000-08:00

The view from Stu's roomKippi and Lenny aka Nana and Papa

Bryce and Erin
Stu and Carter outside of Frog'sCarter posing in the window - what a hottie!

Madsens Party at Pat's Gym

2009-01-20T18:44:00.001-08:00

Gramma Madsen chatting with Melanie at the annual Christmas party at Pat's gym. Keri, Melanie, and Vick
Pat and presents

Juan, Kristin, and Bob

Snow Day!

2009-01-20T18:05:00.000-08:00

The Tuesday before Christmas Break, we awoke to tons of snow and that coveted phone call: "School has been cancelled for today!" Juan happily measured the depth of our snow.Time to press the big blue tractor into service! Frigid fowl floating on the neighbor's pond.
Clots of snow dot the earth.

Happy Birthday, Carter-Man, WE LOVE YOU!

2008-11-27T10:30:00.000-08:00

Mommy loved you even before you were born!Mommy and Daddy love Carter!

Nana loves Carter!

2008-11-27T10:22:00.001-08:00

Papa Juan loves Carter!

2008-11-27T09:53:00.001-08:00

Uncle Stu Loves Carter!

2008-11-27T09:43:00.001-08:00

EVERYONE loves Carter!

2008-11-27T09:28:00.000-08:00

Three generations of moms love Carter-Man!Clarks and Quicks love Carter
Madsens love Carter

Tanners love Carter

Aunt Carla loves Carter

Aunt Carol loves Carter

Uncle Morgan loves Carter

Cousin Carlee loves Carter

Happy Birthday, Carter - You've given us two years of smiles!

IOL Math Training at the Ranch

2008-11-16T18:55:00.001-08:00

In October, Vaughn and I had the chance to spend three days at Ken and Marilynn's ranch in Swan Valley, Idaho. Marilynn had invited three extraordinary Kenyans to the US for extended IOL training in math and science - and I had the opportunity to work with Stephen, Evelyn, and Lilian on the mathematics end of things.
We created our own tangrams and discussed geometry vocabulary. Then watched a training video with students doing the same things we had done.

After a morning of math, we went outside to play games - this is the game lady with Stephen, Lilian, and Marilynn.

"He was the king of trees; keeper of the leaves." ~Cat Stephens
Uncle Dick told us this tree is not native to the Swan Vally area.

After more math work around the dining room table, we viewed another training video - this time in the chilly basement. Evelyn and Stephen are wrapped up in quilts trying to get warm. Our cool weather was much colder than the equatorial climate to which they are accustomed.
Here we are listening to Uncle Dick talk to us about teaching science.

A Taste of the Old West!

2008-11-16T18:02:00.001-08:00

Evelyn's got her boots on and a cowboy hat perched on her head!

Jenny gets the horse ready for a rider, while Cowgirl Evelyn watches.Stephen, Lilian, and Evelyn observe the goings-on in the round pen - just three cowboys a-waitin' for a chance to ride.

Evelyn gets the first lesson.

Jenny and Joes are ready for action!
Evelyn's a natural in the saddle!
Jenny lengthens the stirrups for Stephen.
Stephen cuts a dashing figure on horseback!
That smile says it all!

Now it's Lilian's turn...
First lap around the round pen - life is good with red boots!
Jenny gives some reining instructions.Marilynn shows us how a real cowgirl sits a horse! Marilynn doles out a post-horseback hug.

The riding party, plus me - a non-rider.

Even the horse knows how to pose properly for a picture!

Stephen learns about another kind of horsepower!

Stu is a QUARTER CENTURY old!

2008-09-14T20:06:00.000-07:00

Dear Stu - Here's a little tribute to your first 25 years
Happy Birthday to you!Happy Birthday to you!Happy Birthday dear Stuuuuuu!Happy Birthday to You!Happy, happy birthdayStuart, dearHappy daysWill come to you All year If I had one wish

Then it would be

A happy, happy BIRTHDAY

To you

From me!

Happy Birthday, Boy!

(Don't laugh... it only encourages him!)

Carter visits Papa at the Farm

2008-08-09T19:39:00.000-07:00

The Carter-man stands on a straw bale waiting for Papa. The straw field under a cloud-filled sky - notice the toe rock on the left edge of the photo.
Another great shot of clouds and the Sleeping Ute Mountain.
Carter at the wheel of the tractor.
Carter and Papa are delighted with the tractor driving experience.
Watch as Carter drives the tractor... and waves from atop the bale.

Carter spends time at Nana and Papa's

2008-08-09T19:27:00.000-07:00

Carter draws on the chalkboard wall.
Carter helps his Nana make muffins.The tiny man rides the "Papa Train".

Playing with blocks in the Nana Room.

Play Dough and measuring spoons....
Carter, the talented sou-chef

Spending some time at Aunt Marilynn's

2008-08-09T19:12:00.000-07:00

Erin with Brody and Cousin Tina

Erin with Tina's baby boy, Brody

Carter examines Sean, Cousin Cheri's new baby while Maddie looks onAunt Mare and Cheri doing stuff
Brody snuggles with his mama, Tina

2008 Clark Family Reunion

2008-08-03T19:05:00.000-07:00

We went to Indian dancing at the Cortez Cultural Center.

Traditional women's dance

Swinging fringe

Hunting dance

Connor and Noah join in with the dancers.

Connor takes the opportunity to get to know a praying mantis - it was a momentary diversion from the grasshopper hunting.

Clarks at Mesa Verde

2008-08-03T18:47:00.000-07:00

Mesa Verde is an amazing place! Jody and Bridger, Cory, Karly, Tate, and Jason
Aunt Marilynn rounds up Noah and Connor for a photo.

Noah and Connor pose in front of an Anasazi dwelling with their Grandma. Kristin takes a turn with Noah and Connor.
Becky and Trent

Carter works with the grinding stone.
Tate, Karly, Erin and Carter, Jason

Reunion Afternoon Activities

2008-08-03T18:13:00.001-07:00

We spent a great afternoon at the Pond.

Uncle Dick tries to get his Cocker, Miss Maggie, into the water. Erin and Carter fill a bucket with mud.
Karly takes a moment to gather her courage before swinging on the rope.Tate and Jason lurk below the rope swing.
Uncle Vaughn reacts to Betty shaking and flinging water on his tender back.
The floating alligator is a wonderful island anchored in the middle of the pond. Notice the splash which indicates where Jason went in after loosing his grip.
The paddle boat is a roaring success.
Trent and Becky took their family to the Four Corners Monument for photos, fry bread, and jewelry.

Clarks Chillin' at the House

2008-08-03T18:01:00.000-07:00

Karly and Carter pose for the cameras.

Uncle Vaughn, Aunt Kathy, and the cutest Carter ever!
Trent, Uncle Dick, and Cory

More Pictures of Carter (just for you, Stu!)

2008-07-29T13:28:00.001-07:00

Bryce and I took Carter to the

Memphis Children's Museum.

Carter is trying out an airplane seat - he already knows a lot about airplanes!With Bryce's help, Carter catches a fish...Carter crawls through one of the enormous heart's arteries...Carter applauds his efforts - all the food puzzle pieces are where they should be!He give his dad ten...

Happy 91st Birthday, Mom!

2008-07-29T12:50:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to you!

Happy Birthday, Dear Mother!

Happy Birthday to YOU!

Happy, Happy Birthday

Mother-Dear

Happy days will come...

to you all year!

If I had one wish

Than it would be....

A happy, happy birthday

To you from Me!

Happy 91st birthday from Kippi, Erin, and Carter!

July 26th - It's Nan's Birthday!

2008-07-26T12:25:00.000-07:00

Happy, happy birthday, Nipper-Dear...

Happy days will come to you all year.

If I have one wish

Then it would be

A happy, happy birthday

To you from me!
Happy Birthday to You
Happy Birthday to You
Happy Birthday, Dear Nannieeeeee!
Happy Birthday to You!

Great Times with Carter!

2008-07-18T09:51:00.000-07:00

Carter has a good stance and a great swing - Take a look!

Carter can really hit the ball - Watch!

Watch Carter shake his groove-thang! Bryce, Carter, and Nana went to the Memphis Children's Museum and Carter loved the disco dance room! Mirror ball, lights, and music!

Nana's in Memphis!

2008-07-17T10:37:00.000-07:00

Carter's happy face when he sees his Nana - notice he is forward facing in his carseat. He's so big!
Carter likes to wallow on Nana's bed.
"Batter stance!"

Carter looks at the neat tic tac toe puzzle on a big toy in one of Memphis area's beautiful parks.
Matching up the pictures.
Next to balls, Carter loves books most! He will sit and read by himself for long stretches of time. Such remarkable focus!

Is there anything cuter that a Carter?

2008-07-17T10:30:00.001-07:00

Carter spends some quality time in the sandbox.
This cool toy has a "water wheel" that spins as sand pours over it.
Carter can really swing the bat!
Carter patrols the used car lot as we wait f-o-r-e-v-e-r for the car to have its oil changed and the two new tires mounted... Carter amuses himself with the maze toy (still at the car dealership...)

The "New" Table

2008-07-10T16:36:00.000-07:00

We bought this cute white-washed oak table with a tile top along with the four matching chairs in Billings many years ago. It looked darling in Billings and pretty good in the 414 Colorado Street house, but it was not well suited to the new house... This picture is a couple of years old featuring Juan and Joe just as they are finishing a dinner of Cortez Chicken and Wilcoxson's Fudge Bars.

So after much searching the the perfect replacement tiles, we moved the table and chairs to the garage work area.
The chairs go from white to black.This table will be transformed from ordinary to spectacular!
The salesman had said, "All you have to do is pop out the tiles when you're ready for a new look." Yeah, right...
The tools required to "pop out the tiles"...

The table also gets a couple of coats of black paint.

A layer of tile padding is needed before laying in the tiles.We moved the table back inside and placed it on a new round rug. Notice the sage-y green cushions on the chairs.

Another look at the re-finished table and chairs.

This shot lets you see the lovely black grout / caulk that separates the tiles.

Rolling out the Grass!

2008-06-02T15:57:00.001-07:00

This Spring, Trevor, our landscaper, has been laboring on our yard. Last Fall, he started with the sprinklers and this Spring, he continued his work. Using the landscape plan Ric created, Trena and I scouted out and bought trees and shrubs for phase one of what will most likely be a five-year endeavor. Take a look...

Pallets of sod ring the yard.Prepping the earth for a covering of grass. Those rolls are HEAVY!
Laying it down like strips of wallpaper.
It takes a village....

Erin and Carter try out the new grass.Juan's primary request was grass you could roll on.

"Cabana Boys" Help with Landscaping

2008-06-02T15:49:00.001-07:00

Trena plants a red-colored clump of Pampas Grass. Trena works on the Daphne while Kaden drags

the tarp over to Morgan.
Morgan digs the hole for our matching Daphne.
Kaden hauls over the wheelbarrow loaded with a perfect mix of Colorado earth and potting soil.
Morgan is the hardest working cabana boy ever!

Landscape Phase One -- Done!

2008-06-02T14:48:00.000-07:00

The front yard with maple tree and cranberry cotoneaster bushes.A closer view of the front showing the Dwarf Spruce, Carol Mackie Daphne (a shrub with wonderfully fragrant flowers), and vinca ground cover. The shasta daisies were planted last year and the dead-looking, lank leaves are the remnants of the crocus that bloomed last Spring
Looking at the side yard from the patio. The tree is a honey locust, flanked by shrubs and exotic grasses.

The backyard.Front view with the completed path.

Side view - you see this when arriving from the west.

Mama Joe, Mrs. Joe and the Twins Visit Cortez

2008-06-02T14:36:00.000-07:00

Rez wants to get acquainted.

Papa Joe with Tessa and Madison bathed in a celestial light!
Tessa and Maddie are ready for work with

camo t-shirts (lace-trimmed) and Carharts.
Joe and Sarah relaxing in the Living Room.
Chris, aka Mama Joe, chats up the happy couple while the babies nap.

Carter and his parents come for a visit =)

2008-05-11T20:23:00.000-07:00

Papa and Carter just walkin

Carter-man and Erin in Stu's towel shorts

Carter slugs down a tasty smoothy in his sippy cup

Carter sitting in Papa's tractor - how fast can you touch all the knobs?

Carter peeps through the window of Noah's Arc

Carter and his daddy exercise on the elliptical

Stu's New Digs

2008-05-11T19:58:00.000-07:00

The Pizza Hut booth fits perfectly in this nook!

The Living Room

Looks like a Kitchen

Don't understand the purpose of this silly Hobbit room...

Painting, a Family Project

2008-05-11T19:46:00.000-07:00

The Mama paints up high!

Stu uses the fancy roller-tool

Papa can paint - who knew?

We painted the booth/dining area a happy yellow-orange.

Here are the two colors side by side.

Stu fills holes before we leave for dinner.

At the MBA Hooding

2008-05-11T19:35:00.001-07:00

GQ Stu

Stu and his Papa

The Proud Family

The actual hooding resembles a formal round of limbo...Walkin' off the stage

The hood from the back:

Stu, our MBA

2008-05-11T19:24:00.001-07:00

Stu is standing next to the MBA sign.

On the stage!
Stu with his former roommate, Joey - now Dr Joey.

New Life for Mary Kay packaging

2008-04-27T19:49:00.000-07:00

One of the most challenging geometry concepts for middle schoolers is surface area. In this lesson, students draw a net (which is a representation for surface area) for the box they are given, then cut the box to match (hopefully) their net.

San Diego for Spring Break!

2008-04-05T14:11:00.000-07:00

We're in Sunny California!Dining in Coronado
Old Town San Diego
Jody and I love the flowers!

Hody lounging in the grand foyer at Loews Coronado. The bridge to Coronado
Palm trees don't grew well in Colorado...
Cheesin' for the camera
The resort surrounded a lovely pool area.