Quite ironically, I just finished watching The Ultimate Gift. It really sets many things into perspective for me. Christmas is a wonderful time to celebrate the birth of our Savior. It's a wonderful time for families. As an update on our 2009 happenings, I am including our family Christmas newsletter. Here goes:
We welcomed Adelle in early July
She's "Sweetie Madelle" in big sister's eyes.
A cute, little sweetheart, she smiles and she coos
Brandon and Danielle love all that she does!
Trent and Sarah have traveled; they've had lots of fun
But with Rowan's arrival, their family's begun!
If anyone's talking, Rowan wants to join in
Always laughing and squealing, he has a friendly grin!
Carden's the baby in theTrever Porter clan
He keeps everyone laughing, whenever he can.
He comes in with big hugs, then leaves with a wave
He follows his siblings, being quite brave!
In no hurry to talk, yet expressing his wants
He maintains rapid action as Jentrie he taunts.
Laneah wears glasses, her articulation is great
She has very good manners, but sometimes licks her plate
Laneah goes to Joy School; she's a princess divine
She loves to play dress up with costumes of any kind!
She loves playing restaurant, cook a surprise
She loves dates with Brandon and eating his fries!
Jentrie is a sweetheart; she likes to help clean
She mothers "Baby Carden"; she's seldom ever mean!
Doing puzzle's a talent she's definitely got
Keeping up with her siblings, she's learned quite a lot!
Jentrie is dancing, her bootie she shakes
She likes things picked up, few messes she makes!
Kindergarten is great--Just ask Analyse
She reads really well and helps keep the peace
Very complimentary, she'll add a kind word
But just get her laughing, she's the funniest heard!
She dances and tumbles--even breaking her arm
Yet she still likes to laugh and turns on her charm!
Bryson is growing, he's always on top
With math and with reading, he just doesn't stop!
He loves the computer, Club Penguin is great
He catches on quickly, he's always first rate!
Bryson was baptized early this spring
He plays soccer and b-ball--a champ at all things!
When it comes to Sarah, talents abound
Life is never boring when she is around.
Awarded her masters for studying teens
As YoungWomen's President, she learns many things!
She's still an RA and now teaching's a part
With USU faculty--an excellent start!
Eyes on a doctorate, her education grows
Sarah has no limits, we've all come to know!
Studying finance and economics, too
Mike has a business mind; he's got calculus through!
A Utah State Aggie, he makes Sarah's life fun
Going riding and shooting and fishing a ton!
With America First, an officer fair
When not busy with Sarah, he's usually there!
Checking on memberships, keeping a count
As the ward clerk on Sunday, Mike's always found!
Being a mom fits Danielle to a "T"
Making things pleasant for her family!
Organizing's essential to keep things in line
Danielle holds the keys to make their living divine!
She sews and she cooks; she scrapbooks and reads
Plays games with her girls, meeting all of their needs!
Teaching the children when Primary meets
Danielle's enthusiasm just can't be beat!
A seminary teacher, Brandon's first rate
The students all love him and so does his mate!
A diligent teacher, the Young Men he serves
Working with teens takes lots of nerve!
He's getting his masters; he's studying hard
He writes lots of papers and read lots of words!
A wonderful father, a really fun Dad
He loves his three girls; he seldom gets mad!
Sarahlo is a runner--the Tri and 5K
She keeps Trent in shape; they run everyday!
Rowan's her sweetie; she teaches him tons
She makes life exciting; she's surrounded by fun!
Musical talents, scrapbooking, too
Sarah's creative, always trying things new!
Making new friends wherever she goes
Caring for her boys, brings the Sarahlo glow!
Trent loves being Daddy--To Rowan he's king
He keeps Rowan laughing and teaches him things!
Executive Secretary of a good Phoenix ward
Keeping everything scheduled wasn't too hard!
Then in November he and Sarah were brave
They moved to Las Vegas, giving good friends a wave!
With an Allegiant Air job, on a management team
He's knee deep in finance--his rating's supreme!
Carah is busy with so much to do
There's soccer and crafts and raising her crew!
Her garden is tops; her canning is great
Preparing things healthy makes her storage first rate!
One day a week she still goes to work
As a GI lab nurse, her job she won't shirk!
A Primary teacher for those Jentrie's age
She's also up to scrapping many a page!!
Serving ward elders; always wearing a smile
Trever helps those in need--he goes the extra mile!
A new job and promotion, still at McKay Dee
As Director of Finance, holding an administrative key!
His top roll is Daddy--just ask his kids
They're so enthusiastic to tell what he did!
Always ready to help; he cooks and he reads
He does all he can to meet his family's needs!
Dennis loves accounting; number crunching's his thing
Working for Wood Richards makes his heart sing!
Keeping appointments for Stake Presidency men
Maintaining the schedules, the phone is his friend!
The Pa eo has died; the blue car so old
Dennis wanted a funeral, but it was too cold!
Joyce enjoys tending the small Porter clan
At least once a week, more. . .when she can!
Teaching at Weber; learning so many things
She sometimes gets weary seeing computer screens!
Volunteering with co-op brings Saturday fun
Delivering veggies and fruits from Arizona's sun!
The new year's approaching; we send you our best
We all love the Gospel; its truth we attest!
Be good to your neighbors; be kind to your kin
Enjoy every minute of whatever you're in!
Merry Christmas from Joyce and Dennis
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Sunday, January 04, 2009
The Ultimate Gift
One of the special gifts we received for Christmas was the DVD of the Ultimate Gift. When all the holiday hoopla subsided, Dennis and I sat down to watch it. I would highly recommend it to anyone. It finished off our holidays with a special, deep meaning of just what giving is all about. No matter how you look at it 2008 was great!
Our newest family member arrived on March the ten
He grins just like his Daddy--Again, again, again!
Carden Kael is the name Carah & Trever chose
He’s just a happy baby, He seldom shares his woes
He thinks he should be walking he stands up to every chair
But then he’s quick at crawling you find him everywhere
Jentrie Kate is 3 years old she’s sweet as she can be
Saying words her special way, her name is Shentarie
She loves to cuddle up and hear, a favorite story read
She shares a room with Sissy, they’re sharing new twin beds
Jentrie loves to paint, she also loves to dance
She’ll shake her booty any time that she can get a chance
Analyse Kiara is the next in line
She is always ready to have a real good time
She loves to sing her own sweet words
She creates new lyrics no one else has ever heard
Dancing’s a favorite with lessons each week
She’s mastered a cartwheel, her wisdom’s unique
Bryson Kyle Porter is seven already
He’s at the top of his class; he holds that spot steady.
He reads and he writes on the computer he’s great
Math is a favorite at games he’s top-rate
He scores goals in soccer; shooting baskets is fun
A super Big Brother he keeps all on the run!
Carah loves canning; She loves raising her clan
She still loves her crafting whenever she can
Working one day out of each week
Gives her the out that all of us seek
Serving young women keeps her busy at church
Still playing soccer--Hope she doesn’t get hurt!
Trever’s fantastic at his fatherly skills
He’s gentle and patient with messes and spills
Working in finance he’s designing new ways
To streamline the process hospital budgets relay!
An Elder’s quorum counselor his service doesn’t quit
Then Basketball and Soccer keep him running and fit
The middle of April will bring more than the bunny
Trent will be a dad--We all think that’s funny
A baby is coming; a boy so we’ve heard
They won’t share a name--Nary a word
Sarahlo’s keeping busy taking care of our Trent
Then with work at Verizon her time is well spent
She ran the race in Boston; she & Trent traveled far
Hawaii and Ireland--Air travel beats cars
Playing piano at Primary Sarah’s heart always sings
Her crazy antics teach Trent many things
Trent advanced in the airlines to a management slot
His job keeps him thinking and busy a lot
He did a triathalon in November in Phoenix
He loves traveling the world; He’s found it quite scenic
Laneah’s a cutie; She’s definitely two
She keeps Danielle busy finding plenty to do
She had her eyes straightened; They still sparkle with fun
She’s in and out of everything; There’s little she’s not done
Danielle’s an organizer; She keeps Brandon's life straight
She loves cooking healthy with recipes great
She loves being momma; it keeps her busy each day
She’s the best momma ever, Laneah’s sure to say
Teaching the 5 year olds expands her knowledge at church
She loves reading and yoga; And for bargains she’ll search
Brother Porter is loved by students each day
With his special way of teaching, he knows just what to say
He leads the young men in his ward to the top
His influence on youth will never really stop!
Being a fun daddy, a kind husband, too
Keeps Brandon busy every day through
Working on his masters, he’s making top grades
He studies and studies; He loves the life they’ve made
Sarah Shalese became Sarah Tulane
One bright day in May; She likes her new name
She’s going to school at Utah State U
She’s a TA, an RA, and she works at the Credit U
Mike’s a new addition; we love him like a son
He takes good care of Sarah; He thinks she’s number One!
A credit union worker, a loan officer first rate
He’s ready for fun and enjoys Utah State
He and Sarah live in Logan; They teach the 5 year olds
They’re learning to be patient with these youngsters so bold
Sarah couldn’t be happier in any other place
She loves being married and decorating their place
Dennis keeps busy, but he wants a new job
He works in accounting; He likes the financial mob
As the Stake Exec Sec he’s busy on the phone
He knows with Joyce’s talking he is never alone
Joyce is the Grandma--There’s no better name
She loves her little chickens; She’s ready to play a game
At the college she’s teaching, on both PC’s and MAC’s
Sometimes running in circles; She has to stop in her tracks
Being at home is her favorite place to be
Baking cookies and cakes is her sweet reverie
Our family went stand by for Florida’s fun
We loved the adventure; We didn’t find the sun!
We waded in water; We laughed and we cheered
Dressed in matching shirts, people thought we were weird
But we loved the adventure; We would do it again
Just ask the grandkids they want to know when
Our family’s into blogging; We each have a site
Here are the addresses--Take a gander tonight
That way our news will be kept up to date
You’ll know what we’re doing, you won’t have to wait!
Dennis and Joyce
http://www.portertowncrier.blogspot.com/
Trever and Carah (Private)
Trent and Sarah
http://www.theporterhousesizzle.blogspot.com/
Brandon and Danielle
http://porterfam.blogspot.com/
Mike and Sarah
http://thetulanes.blogspot.com/
He grins just like his Daddy--Again, again, again!
Carden Kael is the name Carah & Trever chose
He’s just a happy baby, He seldom shares his woes
He thinks he should be walking he stands up to every chair
But then he’s quick at crawling you find him everywhere
Jentrie Kate is 3 years old she’s sweet as she can be
Saying words her special way, her name is Shentarie
She loves to cuddle up and hear, a favorite story read
She shares a room with Sissy, they’re sharing new twin beds
Jentrie loves to paint, she also loves to dance
She’ll shake her booty any time that she can get a chance
Analyse Kiara is the next in line
She is always ready to have a real good time
She loves to sing her own sweet words
She creates new lyrics no one else has ever heard
Dancing’s a favorite with lessons each week
She’s mastered a cartwheel, her wisdom’s unique
Bryson Kyle Porter is seven already
He’s at the top of his class; he holds that spot steady.
He reads and he writes on the computer he’s great
Math is a favorite at games he’s top-rate
He scores goals in soccer; shooting baskets is fun
A super Big Brother he keeps all on the run!
Carah loves canning; She loves raising her clan
She still loves her crafting whenever she can
Working one day out of each week
Gives her the out that all of us seek
Serving young women keeps her busy at church
Still playing soccer--Hope she doesn’t get hurt!
Trever’s fantastic at his fatherly skills
He’s gentle and patient with messes and spills
Working in finance he’s designing new ways
To streamline the process hospital budgets relay!
An Elder’s quorum counselor his service doesn’t quit
Then Basketball and Soccer keep him running and fit
The middle of April will bring more than the bunny
Trent will be a dad--We all think that’s funny
A baby is coming; a boy so we’ve heard
They won’t share a name--Nary a word
Sarahlo’s keeping busy taking care of our Trent
Then with work at Verizon her time is well spent
She ran the race in Boston; she & Trent traveled far
Hawaii and Ireland--Air travel beats cars
Playing piano at Primary Sarah’s heart always sings
Her crazy antics teach Trent many things
Trent advanced in the airlines to a management slot
His job keeps him thinking and busy a lot
He did a triathalon in November in Phoenix
He loves traveling the world; He’s found it quite scenic
Laneah’s a cutie; She’s definitely two
She keeps Danielle busy finding plenty to do
She had her eyes straightened; They still sparkle with fun
She’s in and out of everything; There’s little she’s not done
Danielle’s an organizer; She keeps Brandon's life straight
She loves cooking healthy with recipes great
She loves being momma; it keeps her busy each day
She’s the best momma ever, Laneah’s sure to say
Teaching the 5 year olds expands her knowledge at church
She loves reading and yoga; And for bargains she’ll search
Brother Porter is loved by students each day
With his special way of teaching, he knows just what to say
He leads the young men in his ward to the top
His influence on youth will never really stop!
Being a fun daddy, a kind husband, too
Keeps Brandon busy every day through
Working on his masters, he’s making top grades
He studies and studies; He loves the life they’ve made
Sarah Shalese became Sarah Tulane
One bright day in May; She likes her new name
She’s going to school at Utah State U
She’s a TA, an RA, and she works at the Credit U
Mike’s a new addition; we love him like a son
He takes good care of Sarah; He thinks she’s number One!
A credit union worker, a loan officer first rate
He’s ready for fun and enjoys Utah State
He and Sarah live in Logan; They teach the 5 year olds
They’re learning to be patient with these youngsters so bold
Sarah couldn’t be happier in any other place
She loves being married and decorating their place
Dennis keeps busy, but he wants a new job
He works in accounting; He likes the financial mob
As the Stake Exec Sec he’s busy on the phone
He knows with Joyce’s talking he is never alone
Joyce is the Grandma--There’s no better name
She loves her little chickens; She’s ready to play a game
At the college she’s teaching, on both PC’s and MAC’s
Sometimes running in circles; She has to stop in her tracks
Being at home is her favorite place to be
Baking cookies and cakes is her sweet reverie
Our family went stand by for Florida’s fun
We loved the adventure; We didn’t find the sun!
We waded in water; We laughed and we cheered
Dressed in matching shirts, people thought we were weird
But we loved the adventure; We would do it again
Just ask the grandkids they want to know when
Our family’s into blogging; We each have a site
Here are the addresses--Take a gander tonight
That way our news will be kept up to date
You’ll know what we’re doing, you won’t have to wait!
Dennis and Joyce
http://www.portertowncrier.blogspot.com/
Trever and Carah (Private)
Trent and Sarah
http://www.theporterhousesizzle.blogspot.com/
Brandon and Danielle
http://porterfam.blogspot.com/
Mike and Sarah
http://thetulanes.blogspot.com/
A Wonderful Holiday Season
The 
holidays were spelled FAMILY for the Dennis Porter Family. That is F (fun), A (anticipation–Every time Bryson, Analyse, Jentrie, and Carden came over, Analyse could give an exact count of when Santa would be coming.), M (memories in the making), I (imagination), L (love), Y (yearning for more).
When I refer to family, I am referring to our four children, their perfect spouses, and terrific grandchildren. For a few activities we were all together–for a few of the activities a few were missing (and greatly missed).
holidays were spelled FAMILY for the Dennis Porter Family. That is F (fun), A (anticipation–Every time Bryson, Analyse, Jentrie, and Carden came over, Analyse could give an exact count of when Santa would be coming.), M (memories in the making), I (imagination), L (love), Y (yearning for more).When I refer to family, I am referring to our four children, their perfect spouses, and terrific grandchildren. For a few activities we were all together–for a few of the activities a few were missing (and greatly missed).
The holiday season began with Thanksgiving. Everyone contributed to a perfect meal and lots of fun. The little ones had their own special table and decor. Bryson did a great job reading off the thankful feathers everyone had composed. The little girls decorated the turkey with the feathers. Two days prior to Thanksgiving, Trent and Sarah announced that their new addition will be a little boy–he’ll be arriving in April. Woo! Hoo!
That evening we kept up Momma Joyce’s tradition of putting up the Christmas tree. With everyone assisting, it was wonderful and it was beautiful. Each child looked for their special ornaments–sure hope they all fit on the tree in future years. Laneah loved setting out the little teddy bears.
The day after Thanksgiving Trent helped clean some boxes up in the garage. I found the box of Sarah's old dance costumes. That started the dress up fun for the little girls:
Between the special sealing of Evan, Cindee, Peyton, and Kaylee (We’re so glad we got to be a part of it) and a Kurt Bestor weekend, the second weekend of December was very active.
Sunday dinners with the family were so much fun, enlightening too. That’s where Sissy explained to us that when you are in Primary, you get treats in class on Slow Sundays–just not on Fast ones. Somehow Trever or Carah can always be found at the sink doing the Sunday dishes! WOW! After one of those dinners, Carden worked extra hard on his walking. He’s watched everyone run around and wants to be a part of the action.
Sunday dinners with the family were so much fun, enlightening too. That’s where Sissy explained to us that when you are in Primary, you get treats in class on Slow Sundays–just not on Fast ones. Somehow Trever or Carah can always be found at the sink doing the Sunday dishes! WOW! After one of those dinners, Carden worked extra hard on his walking. He’s watched everyone run around and wants to be a part of the action.
When it came time for Christmas, things simply moved too fast. Christmas Eve we loved spending with the Gary Porter clan. Everyone brought yummy food–I think I’m still wearing it! We played a game of family feud–but it was more like family fun. The kids ha
d lots of activities. What a terrific tradition! What a terrific family to have as cousins!
Christmas Eve Brandon, Danielle, and Laneah stayed with us. They made for a very memorable Christmas morning. A child is what Christmas is all about. I loved calling Laneah “Cinderella” and having her tell me she was “Aurora.”
Christmas Day was unbelievable. By 3:30 all the fam
ily had arrived. The house was alive. Grandma Joyce received a Wii! I have never been in favor of a single player in front of the TV with video games, but I totally love the family involvement with this one. The big kids were little; the little kids were big. When we were all bowling, Bryson explained it best: “The little kids and the old people are doing better than the others.” I think Grandpa and Grandma were the “old” people. When I asked Jentrie if Santa had come to her house, she said, “Not yet.” Then she proceeded to tell me what Santa had given her. However, I think she was expecting Santa to knock on the door and come in for a visit.
Brandon and Danielle announced that Laneah is going to be a big sister. It’s so exciting to be able to welcome a new little one to the family–this one will arrive in early July. The girls of the family all combined their scrapbooking talents and put together a treasured album of the year’s happenings for each family. Additions are promised for each coming year.
The day after Christmas, some of the kids got up and went to the Athletic Club by invitation from Sarahlo and Trent. They had a great time. OOOPS! Brandon came home feeling yucky! It’s hard to even have big kids get sick. His family sat out on the afternoon activities–as did Trent and Sarah. Grandpa and Grandma went with Trever’s family to see Bedtime Stories. After the movie we were back at the house for pizza and Wii games. Trever helped with Grandma’s other crazy tradition–taking the tree down. His help was immensely appreciated.
The Porter Bed and Breakfast Inn was in service throughout the holidays (and anytime the kids want to come and stay). We loved having different families stay a night or two–and then come back again. Brandon and Danielle stayed an extra night to assist with cleaning–it was great. Every time Mike and Sarah could break away from work, they would come and stay–even then I put them to work here.
December 30 Bryson came for his long-awaited sleepover. Too many activities in December caused it to be delayed. We had fun playing an old game called Take Two. Bryson was the master. Then Bryson showed Grandma some Wii details so that she can get Wii Fit. He was a real trooper running errands with Grandma for a part of the day.
New Year’s Eve we enjoyed playing games with Mike, Sarah, Brandon and Danielle. We made yummy hoagie sandwiches. We played Wii, Disney Scene It, and Loaded Questions. Brandon got us laughing to the point of tears. They all stayed over for New Year’s Day. Sarah and Mike had to leave mid morning due to other commitments. Afternoon brought Trever’s family over. Brandon’s family and Trever’s family, sans Carden, went sleigh riding. Lots of fun! Then they all came back for a casual dinner and tons of Wii fun! It was so neat watching them get so deeply into the games that the ice cream almost melted.
Wait! The holidays aren’t over yet. On Saturday, January 3, Dennis and I had a delightful visit from the Mark Blanscett family–all of them. They are terrific! It’s so neat to have them share their beautiful family with us–the kind of family everyone would emulate. Lots of fun and laughter–cute grandkids, too.
Christmas Day was unbelievable. By 3:30 all the fam
ily had arrived. The house was alive. Grandma Joyce received a Wii! I have never been in favor of a single player in front of the TV with video games, but I totally love the family involvement with this one. The big kids were little; the little kids were big. When we were all bowling, Bryson explained it best: “The little kids and the old people are doing better than the others.” I think Grandpa and Grandma were the “old” people. When I asked Jentrie if Santa had come to her house, she said, “Not yet.” Then she proceeded to tell me what Santa had given her. However, I think she was expecting Santa to knock on the door and come in for a visit.Brandon and Danielle announced that Laneah is going to be a big sister. It’s so exciting to be able to welcome a new little one to the family–this one will arrive in early July. The girls of the family all combined their scrapbooking talents and put together a treasured album of the year’s happenings for each family. Additions are promised for each coming year.
The day after Christmas, some of the kids got up and went to the Athletic Club by invitation from Sarahlo and Trent. They had a great time. OOOPS! Brandon came home feeling yucky! It’s hard to even have big kids get sick. His family sat out on the afternoon activities–as did Trent and Sarah. Grandpa and Grandma went with Trever’s family to see Bedtime Stories. After the movie we were back at the house for pizza and Wii games. Trever helped with Grandma’s other crazy tradition–taking the tree down. His help was immensely appreciated.
The Porter Bed and Breakfast Inn was in service throughout the holidays (and anytime the kids want to come and stay). We loved having different families stay a night or two–and then come back again. Brandon and Danielle stayed an extra night to assist with cleaning–it was great. Every time Mike and Sarah could break away from work, they would come and stay–even then I put them to work here.
December 30 Bryson came for his long-awaited sleepover. Too many activities in December caused it to be delayed. We had fun playing an old game called Take Two. Bryson was the master. Then Bryson showed Grandma some Wii details so that she can get Wii Fit. He was a real trooper running errands with Grandma for a part of the day.
New Year’s Eve we enjoyed playing games with Mike, Sarah, Brandon and Danielle. We made yummy hoagie sandwiches. We played Wii, Disney Scene It, and Loaded Questions. Brandon got us laughing to the point of tears. They all stayed over for New Year’s Day. Sarah and Mike had to leave mid morning due to other commitments. Afternoon brought Trever’s family over. Brandon’s family and Trever’s family, sans Carden, went sleigh riding. Lots of fun! Then they all came back for a casual dinner and tons of Wii fun! It was so neat watching them get so deeply into the games that the ice cream almost melted.
Wait! The holidays aren’t over yet. On Saturday, January 3, Dennis and I had a delightful visit from the Mark Blanscett family–all of them. They are terrific! It’s so neat to have them share their beautiful family with us–the kind of family everyone would emulate. Lots of fun and laughter–cute grandkids, too.
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