Lake Virgin

Lotsa water everwhere

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How high's the water?

Getting higher

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Oh my my!

Getting higher

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Do Do Do lookin out my back door

The river is looking kinda scary out my back door Today

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Christmas Food Court Flash Mob, Hallelujah Chorus - Must See!

A Christmas Greeting

Before the year is over.

It has been ages since a blogged.  So many things have happened.  To catch up some of the things these old folks have been up to is as follows:

Michael has earned so much time off that we have been able to be together this fall.   Grandpa Stratton went out with us to find a cache that was on Gooseberry.  It had been quite a while since he had been in that area.  It was fun to time with him.  We even did pinenut hunting (two trees and 30 sappy fingers).  We found 2 good nuts and plenty that were empty.  But dad was so happy that he could say that he had been out hunting nuts.  The cache took us to a trail that leads off Gooseberry to Grafton and the cemetery.  So we decided to take a look around them.  We ended the day by having lunch at the Majestic and going through the museum.

Dad had so much fun that we were able to talk Mom Stratton into going with us out to check a cache by the Pink Coral Sands.  They had not seen that area in a long time.  We went around through Kanab to see more country.  Dad Stratton was excited that we were able to see three different herds of deer.  The deer were good enough to stand by the road to let us take pictures.

Saddie, Tomy, Hazel, and I went to Witches Night out in Salt Lake Valley.  We stayed with Craig and Tricia. Then we went picked up some file cabinets for Saddie that she had bid on.  Craig's friend helped pick up more files for her and Craig had them sitting all around the outside of his house.

I spent a week with Craig and Tricia to play with the boys and Montgomery.  Montgomery and I became very good friends.  It was fun to have Halloween with them.  The whole town has a trick or treat on main street.  I was so glad the also had benches.

Michael and I were able to go and spend time with Craig and Tricia when Montgomery was blessed.  He looked so cute in his tartan.  Great job Tricia.  We then hauled Saddie's file cabinets back with us.

Another day we took Dad Stratton and Mom Darrington for a ride down to see the new highway that leads to St. George's new airport.  It is getting very close to opening.

For Thanksgiving Michael and I thought we would only have Colt here with us.  Instead we ended up with everyone except Craig's family.  But we were able to see go to their home for Saturday and Sunday.

Shay and Jayson was able to come to for a 10 days.  Katelyn had a beautiful tea party birthday party.  It was so fun to have all the girl cousins come.  Katelyn brought knitting needles and bags to all of the girls and started to show them how to knit.

Friday morning Shay and Jayson had a Spendlove reunion and family pictures with the Lee's.

So Travis and Saddie's family with us to Jumping Jacks to play and we had a picnic in the parking lot.

We were able to have a nice evening dinner and game night at Saddie's Friday night all together. 

Saturday we traveled to Craig and Tricia's for a visit and went to Jumping Jacks to burn off our wiggles.  It was so fun to see the twins race around with the older children and adults. 

Cameron came with them from Missouri.  He was able to have three dates in the time he was here.  We had a triple date caching in the Virgin area.  It was so fun.  I had a Jack and Jill moment.  I was very glad it was at the end of the date and not that I ended the date.

Saturday Michael and I was able to spend the day with Tricia and Craig. 

Monday we had breakfast at the Weaver's (Jayson's other parents) in Salem.  It was so much easier for me to let them leave to go home when we were leaving to go home too.  But we were lucky to get to see them one more time in Nephi.  Cameron's zip drive had fallen out of his pocket while he road north with us.  Michael found it as we filled with gas.  It was nice to have an extra good-bye wave.

Michael and I are so blessed!  He was able to have time off on short notice when Shay was here.  We had enough vehicles that we could all play together.  Everyone was able to play and work with each other.  Friendship were built and strengthened.  Everyone is doing well and the LORD is pouring out blessing on them all.

This is just a crude list of all of the things that we have been blessed to see and do.  We are so blessed.  I would love to tell you all of our blessing we have experienced in the last few months.  But you don't have the time to sit and read it if I did.

Michael in 7th Heaven

Neon lights on 50's Pictures

New side table.

Michael with some of his friends.

So many cars so little money.

Ooh.Ooh OOH!

In Santa Rosa we stopped at the Route 66 Auto Museum. It was a very nice place to walk around and see some of the cars that were driven on Route 66 in the past. Here are some of the pictures we took. It was a great way to stretch our legs. We both loved the floor.

Kimaire and Grandpa's Birthday

Kimaire and Grandpa decided they wanted to go to the zoo for their birthday. The Lee's went with us last year and we missed riding on the train. Not this year, that was the very first thing we did. We also played in the jumping water and at the play ground. We fed the giraffes, goats, fish, and donkey. We watched the bears wrestle and the bobcats had a discussion about who's the boss. The elephants were eating food that was a real stretch of the trunk and drinking water that was in a tank that was over the top of the fence. The only down part was Colt was sick for most of the time that he was in Missouri. That included our zoo trip. So he spent most of the time in the parking lot under a shade tree. He did recover well enough to join us for lunch at Lamberts. It was a very great day of play.

Its Really sunny in Grovespring

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It was sunny in Amarillo too!

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It was Sunny in Gallop New Mexico

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It was Sunny at Bluewater lake

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It's Sunny in Kirtland New Mexico

We found the chapel in Kirtland New Mexico !

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Kayla's Laugh

Can't get enough of her giggles :)

Finally finished up the Van lift

Well at long last we finally finished up the 4 inch lift on our Astro AWD van. I must really say it went quite well, all the parts and pieces were well engineered and well built which made the install quite painless. it really helped though that our particular van was in very good condition with little to no rust anywhere making the bolts and things come out very easily. one of the better effects of the lift was to VASTLY improve the ride and handling of the van, it also of course improved the ride height and ground clearance as expected. next step larger better tires!!Published with Blogger-droid v1.4.9

more photos

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pray 4 us

I saw this on the boulevard yesterday hehe

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Canadian geese passing through

I went out the backdoor of my office to find a flock of Canadian geese camping out on the lawn. I didn't try to get close so as not to spook them.

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The 24th of July

Today I went over to LaVerkin to help Saddie advertise her preschool and math tutoring classes. I took the pictures below at the start area. Saddie is wearing my sheets that she made into the skirt and apron last night at my house. This morning she decided what her float was going to look like.
Poor Michael had to work today and I missed him very much. He helped me get the pictures onto the blog. I now have my Evo and couldn't get the blog app to work yet!

Toys she has seen

one more neat toy, since our house is so full of toys a picture is almost as good.

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Toys she has seen

Dendra sent some photos of some toys she thought I would enjoy while out at dinner in a little Mex food spot in American Fork, I thought it would be fun to post them .

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road trip

Dendra and her sisters and mom are on a marathon road trip visiting Friends and family, I'm not sure if the world is ready for this!! A trial by fire for our new van too, fully loaded eight people (Characters) 6 women and two boys in an eight passenger van .... Whew imagine the giggling and laughing the boys had to endure for 400 loooong miles.

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It Does What?

Yesterday Michael and I learned so many things from Colt that I am writing this blog so my brain can take a break. We learned how to have face to face calls, make our phone a GPS unit, oh it also looks up the caches and enters all the info from the geo-caching site, we speak and it looks up internet sites, play e-books, listen to music. We can turn on the movies and music on out home computer from our phones. (now we can be BIGGER couch potatoes) Receive and send e-mails, texts, calls (I am still trying to answer before people hang up:0) ) I laugh at Colt being so patient with us as we try learn, t hen look at more things, ask more question. It also has 2 cameras, a camcorder, automatic weather reports, alarm clock, calendars, to name just a few. We can then get apps (abt 150,000 with more everyday). Colt found one called google sky map. It lets you point the phone at the sky, the GPS locates you automatically and then it names all of the stars and constellations that it sees. So you can know the name of that star in the sky. If I ever get this down I think that I will be so happy with ONE item and VERY tech-no savvy (I HOPE).

Thanks Colt for all of the time, help, and not letting anyone know how slow we are!

Blogging from the phone!

The best part of having a ridiculously overpowered phone? This.

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Expedition Vans

I found an article in Petersons 4wheel and Offroad magazine that was interesting for me, so I thought I would share it. If you would like to see the photos, just click on them and it pulls up the gallery for it.

Expedition Vehicles For Off Roading & Camping - Bug Out-Mobiles

Earthroam Your Home
EarthRoamer has two main platforms.The EarthRoamer XV-LT is based on the Ford Super Duty F-550 four-wheel-drive cab chassis and is designed for two adults and two children camping for extended periods. Equipped with up to 90 gallons of diesel fuel and 85 gallons of fresh water, it is your own luxury condo on the move with granite counters, a convection microwave, air conditioning, a king-size bed, and an enclosed shower/bathroom. With a 17,950-pound gross vehicle weight rating and 10,000-pound towing capability, not only is the XV-LT a great camper, but it's also a great tow rig.

The other EarthRoamer variant is the XV-JP, based on the Jeep Rubicon Unlimited. Designed to carry two adults on technical four-wheel-drive trails to remote camping locations, this pint-sized camper/crawler has a unique Loftop camper that can be deployed to provide nearly 9 feet of interior stand-up space and a queen-size bed in the loft. The XV-JP comes with the capacity to hold 25 gallons of fresh water, an inside cassette toilet, an inside shower, and a sink. Plenty of light and ventilation is provided by an abundance of screened windows. An electric fan and the forced-air furnace will keep you cozy or cool.

Pros: There's a model for everyone, whether you want a burly towing home or a nimble crawling condo.

Cons: The Jeep could probably use more engine for big mountain climbs, or better yet a diesel.

Price range: XV-JP $110,000 baseto $125,000 well optioned; XV-LT $208,000 baseto$255,000 well optioned.

EarthRoamer
720.304.3174
www.earthroamer.com

Build Your Own Mini
From 1990 to 2006 GM offered the Chevy Astro Van and GMC Safari Van with an all-wheel-drive transfer case. Though not as wild and exotic as some of the 4x4s we mentioned here, these vans do make for a great entry-level expedition truck in a small package with used prices between $1,500 and $4,500. The stock full-time BorgWarner transfer case puts a 60/40 split to the rear solid axle and front independent suspension axle, which is fine but can be upgraded to the NP231-C or later stronger electronic-shifting NP233 from a 4x4 S-10 pickup or Blazer, allowing for part-time use and a low range. The 10-bolt rear has plenty of gears and lockers available, and the 7.2-inch front axle is very similar to those from an S-10 truck and Blazer and can be geared down to 4.56 and equipped with a Lock-Rite locker. Every all-wheel-drive variant of these vans came with a 4.3L V-6, but V-8 swaps aren't uncommon and both the 700R and later 4L60E overdrive transmissions are great for long-distance exploring. Now don't expect to be rockcrawling the gnarliest trails just yet, but when fitted with some more aggressive tires, these vehicles could take you exploring backroads that leave other minivans crying to Momma. And if you do want to rockcrawl it, then know that there are quite a few Astros and Safari vans out there with solid axles swapped in under their full frames.

If you think building one of these vans is in your future, then Overland Vans (overlandvans.com) and AstroSafariVans.com should be your first two stops. Overland offers both 2- and 4-inch suspension lifts with new rear leaf springs and either new torsion-bar keys (2-inch) or a new front spindle (4-inch) to clear bigger tires and keep your rocker panels out of the rocks. Overland also offers bumpers and roof racks. AstroSafariVans.com has a forum where owners of both street and trail vans can discuss their build ideas, buy and sell parts, and show off their wheeling pictures.

Researching these budget backcountry explorers has a few of us considering one for a project vehicle. Email us if you think that's a good idea.

Pros: Cheap to get into. Great power. Parts are asy to find in the U.S.

Cons: Low-strength drivetrain needs upgrade to stronger bolt-in parts.

Price range: $1,500 to $4,500 as base purchase.

AstroSafariVans.com
www.astrosafarivans.com

GTRV Pop-Top Campers
888.332.9602
www.gtrv.com

Overland Vans
866.DIRTVAN
www.overlandvans.com

I think I might like to blog

I am so happy with the new helps on the Blog. I am able to understand how this new program works. The fact that it does not take for ever to make changes is the biggest factor. OH HAPPY DAY. Also FYI. I took those pics with my phone and sent it to my computer. And I did it all by myself. And it didn't take more than a few minutes. YIPPEE!!!

Us Old Folks Learn New Tricks

Michael and I have had a very busy month. Colt has helped us move forward in the electronic world. We now have an EVO and a HERO phone. I have the Hero for now because the phone store did not have enough Evo's available. The Hero is to help me learn how to work the new system while waiting for my Evo to come in. It is the top of the line with all the bells and whistles. Trouble is old folks learning all the new tricks that they preform. While trying we have dropped calls, sent empty texts and e-mails, we have even called people that we didn't know we were calling and left phone messages that is us continuing with life because we didn't know we were leaving messages. To all of you I say WE ARE SORRY! But I don't know if it will change in the near future.

Colt also got a Nook (electronic book library) for $60. He knew that I wanted one so he gave it to Michael for Father's Day, but it is for me to have. I am still trying to work out how it works.

We have found our purchases of electronics is money well spent. In case your wondering. It isn't that we need these things. It is just our hobby we share with Colt. Most of our electronics are

gifts from our children. We contact him every time we don't know what we are suppose to do, or

how to get what we want, or to fix what we've done. We fix them so well that a lot of times he has to just come spend the night to have enough time to play (fix) with all of our gadgets.

Michael even tried to hold Colt's arcade games hostage in an effort to get him to play. We have met with limited success. But we can't get enough of having him and the rest of the kids over. It

is nicer to have a TRAINER close by as we try to learn our new tricks.

We Have A new van!

Well here are a few pictures of the Astro Van hereafter referred to as "Dimples" finally in our driveway. Yesterday was quite eventful but went REALLY smoothly, we got everything done but license, but that office was closed yesterday. We also got new tires putt on Sunny yesterday as well, so all is set for a while. We actually got our little Suzuki Phreddie listed for sale on KSL today too, so all that is left is to get the 4 wheeler ready and list it, hopefully they will sell fast so we can pay down the van. I also got a spare set of snow tire along with dimples and may post them for sale too, I don't have much use for snow tires here! as you can see the outside has a few problems but I am not too concerned as this is soon to be a Geo mobile and will possiblly get more scratches too. the inside however is almost perfect, with a few problems such as a hole in the back seat, but all in all by far the nicest van we looked at (okay so we actually only looked at one other) but I am VERY pleased with our purchase!! P.S I LOVE the color!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The Goal

The goal in this particular fit of madness is illustrated by these photo's. Of course I have chosen a silver one and I don't reckon I'll go with the pop top, the lift and tires seem about right and the concept is there. this guy has done some other mods to his rig too, primarily replacing his AWD transfer case with a two speed case from a late model S10 or Blazer with electronic shift. So it begins.....

The Hunt for the perfect Geo caching Mobile (again)

Well here we go again thought Dendra to herself as I began to explain my latest harebrained idea. After a trip to Alamo a week or so, I was worried about using my Mazda for four wheeling, it's my work car so it needs to be dependable (don't they all) and is getting up there in miles too at 153,00. The Suzuki has been modified to be an excellent off road vehicle but unfortunately leaves some to desired when traveling long distances to get to our off road adventures. Enter my brother Brent with a great idea, he has a 4wheel drive van that travels well and is large enough to carry all your stuff and also can have a bed for outback camping otherwise known as "Expedition camping". I began researching this concept and came upon what seemed to be the perfect solution, for me at least a Chevrolet Astro van with AWD. well after much searching and a trip to Kaysville seems to have netted us the " Perfect van" a 2002 Astro FULLY loaded and in great shape in silver right near in Santa Clara. Upon reading the widow sticker (which they still had) I found that this van really is well optioned with a limited slip rear also equipped with 3.73:1 gear ratio, the factory towing package including a real nice hitch well tucked up under the rear bumper, not hanging down like some we have seen. The people have taken excellent care of this van and seems new in appearance with a few small dents/scrapes on the outside. This van was even in the 2002 Olympics (well used during that event) and has stickers proudly displayed to prove it. I will have to post pictures later as we haven't gotten it home yet, we go this morning to sign papers for the loan and complete the transaction. Soo if you know anyone who would like a good Honda TRX 300 4 wheeler (Silver)or a nice Suzuki 4 door Sidekick (Phreddy)let us know or check them out on KSL, as we will be selling them to pay for part of the new vans cost. P.S Dendra has come up with a name for the new van, she nominated "Dimples" which seems fitting as she has a few "Dimples" due to the last 7 years of use, and I think it will stick so she is named even before we have finished the purchase. I feel she will be a helpful addition to our family.

Happy Birthday Craig

On Saturday Michael and I went north to look at a vehicle and see Craig and Tricia and our sweet boys. Tricia's family were having a party for Craig that we were invited too. The pool was delicious as was the food. We had a great time. It was so fun to visit with the kids and play with the twins. They are taking their first steps and working up the courage to walk across small stretches.

Craig I can't believe that you are 25. Thanks for putting us up for the night. We love you home and family.

What A Surprise it Worked!

The blog below was a "I wonder if" and it worked. I know the picture cut part of the face off but I was still happy to know that I didn't have to retype or down load and then go looking for the pictures. It was easy and I did all by myself. Yeah for Dendra. A miracle has occurred.

Marvene's home is over flowing!

I received this e-mail and had to share. It makes me laugh and I am doing something on my blog.

Hi Gublers,

We feel so loved! Your lucky neighbors, R & R

Who adopted who that is the question! Have you seen this FW?

An older, tired-looking dog wandered into my yard. I could tell from his collar and well-fed belly that he had a home and was well taken care of. He calmly came over to me, I gave him a few pats on his head; he then followed me into my house, slowly walked down the hall, curled up in the corner and fell asleep. Rusty--do ya think?!

An hour later, he went to the door, and I let him out. The next day he was back, greeted me in my yard, walked inside and resumed his spot in the hall and again slept for about an hour. This continued off and on for several weeks. Curious I pinned a note to his collar: 'I would like to find out who the owner of this wonderful sweet dog is and ask if you are aware that almost every afternoon your dog comes to my house for a nap.' The next day he arrived for his nap, with a different note pinned to his collar: 'He lives in a home with 6 children, 2 under the age of 3 - he's trying to catch up on his sleep. Can I come with him tomorrow?'

I think your two little ones are wearin' the poor dogs out! They finally laid out and snoozed away for awhile.

Well after spending the evening with Norm and Angie and a good nights sleep we were ready? for another run at the E.T Highway. again the weather was absolutely beautiful, nice and cool, no wind and a LONG road full of caches ahead of us and off we went. we managed to get another 125 caches before I was too hungry to continue, we went on to the little A'Le'Inn for lunch. We both had one of their "Alien Burgers" and I just had to pick up a souvenir, a license plate frame for Sally. we also got to chat with another Caching couple from Wyoming. After that we headed back toward home through Caliente and Panaca.