Cowpath Chronicles

Poppi and the Boys on the Hill - 2/12/11

2011-02-18T10:07:00.003-08:00

Or maybe this......

2009-10-26T23:12:00.003-07:00

Ok, this is closer to the kind of house we might consider putting on our property someday, Lord willing!!!

Just dreaming......

2009-10-26T22:20:00.004-07:00

We've been "playing" on our newly-acquired property up in the hills, clearing briars, and brush, and doing some mowing in order to visualize the lay of the land. Today, Floyd "copied and pasted" a house into the "homesite" area of our 10 acres.......it's not quite the house style we'd like, but the orientation might work.......fun to dream!!!!!!

40 Years Together

2009-08-17T22:55:00.002-07:00

We spent our wedding day (August 16) enjoying the ride thru the Coast Range and a bike ride out the Bay Ocean spit along the Tillamook Bay.....gorgeous weather, blue ocean and sky, enjoying just being together.......amazed that after 40 years it still isn't "old".

Can't help loving this photo!!

2009-07-19T09:25:00.003-07:00

Mommy Susan and 2 year old Curren....such sweet faces!

Patio outside the Break Room at "my office"

2009-07-18T22:48:00.003-07:00

The patio leads to the employee entrance at West Hills Healthcare, where I work. A very lovely space in which to take a coffee break, wouldn't you say?!

How did he get up there?

2009-07-17T20:28:00.002-07:00

This is son Jonathan on top of Eichorn Pinnacle, Sierra Nevada, CA!!!.....and how would one get down????

Happy Birthday #2 to Curren

2009-06-15T22:26:00.002-07:00

He carefully and purposely blew out his two little candles on his Firetruck Cake. What a boy!

Bubble Fun!

2009-06-15T22:08:00.003-07:00

Bubble lessons for Curren
The whole family gets into it!
Eli is amazed!
Oma ia amazing!
Oma is REALLY amazing!! Thanks to www.bubblething.com

And then there was Peter on this day 39 years ago!!!!! We celebrate the day!!

2009-05-27T22:14:00.004-07:00

Peter's birthday, but at a different time and place - Siletz, OR
Little Peter learning to write in Puebla, Mexico.
Bathtime in Puebla, Mexico.
Still amazed at the wonder of it all........a living, breathing, little person!!

The Good with the Not So Good

2009-05-02T21:50:00.002-07:00

In spite of the losses (mom, dad's independence) the week was a good one, working and hanging out with family.

Farewell to Mom

2009-04-24T19:47:00.002-07:00

Edna's Story

Edna Benner Styer slipped away peacefully on April 15, 2009, at the age of 84 in her residence at the Souderton Mennonite Homes. She and her husband E. Kermit Styer had recently observed their 63rd wedding anniversary in March, 2009.

Born in Souderton on January 4, 1925, as the 8th child in a family of 10 children, she was the daughter of the late Charles H. and Leanna M. (Yoder) Benner. (Two older brothers died in early childhood.)

Edna's parents were strict, orderly, and hard-working. Church and home were at the center of their family life together. Edna attended school thru the 12th grade in Souderton public schools. Walking the mile to Souderton High School in any kind of weather was a familiar story. Edna did well in school, studying hard, and spending time with her friends. She was third highest student in her graduating class. That achievement required a memorized speech at graduation, and Edna always grimaced when she recalled the embarrassing moment when she forgot some of her lines.

For a number of years after graduation she worked at Souderton Hosiery Mill, where her father was her foreman. During that time she caught the attention of the love of her life, Kermit Styer. Kermit had left for CPS shortly after they met, but they carried on their courtship from a distance while he was serving at Hagerstown, MD. Not knowing when World War II would end, and having dated for three years, they decided to marry in March, 1946. After the wedding and a honeymoon to Niagara Falls, Kermit returned to CPS and Edna continued to live at her parents' home. Fortunately, the war ended a few months later, and Kermit returned to his new bride.

The newlyweds took up residence with Kermit's father and grandmother in a rowhouse on Diamond Street in Souderton. Being one of two cooks in the kitchen wasn't always easy for Edna, but in her unselfish manner she found a way to make it work.

In a few years, Kermit and Edna moved to their own place on Chestnut Street where they lived for a number of years until Grandmother died, at which time they moved back in with Kermit's father. Edna then had to learn how to share her household with her father-in-law. Because he wasn't a Christian until late in life, and did not attend church, Edna and Kermit were concerned about how that might affect their children.

Five children were born into their family over a period of nine years. A stillborn child that came later was a painful loss for Edna and took a long time to heal. She cared for her young family with every ounce of energy she had, and with great resourcefulness and creativity. Always frugal, she was an avid gardener and preserved lots of food from a very large garden, sewed most of the dresses and shirts for her children, and generally knew how to stretch every penny. With careful budgeting she and Kermit sent their children to Franconia Mennonite School (now Penn View) and Christopher Dock.

She taught her daughters how to sing alto while washing the dishes, with the hymnbook propped on the windowsill.

As a mother, she always encouraged, but never pushed; she expected good behavior, and spanked when nothing else worked, or the offense was too great to ignore. She worked hard, never sitting around. Some of her children presented more of a challenge than others, but her love and patience always prevailed. An open relationship with her children was always more important than winning an argument.

Early in their marriage, Kermit and Edna accepted the call to help plant the new church in Finland where they continued to attend for many years. They have been members for the last twenty years at the Souderton Mennonite Church, where Edna served as an elder, a member of the visitation council and a youth advisor. She was active in many sewing activities, particularly the MCC School Kit and Health Kit Projects, and served as director of the Hatfield branch of the Needlework Guild of America. She made hand-stitched quilts for her grandchildren, and the one she was working on at the time of her death will be completed by Merrill Clemmer.

After the children were grown and out of the home, she worked for a number of years at
Pennview Christian School as a kindergarten helper. She also volunteered for many years at the
Rockhill Mennonite Home, changing the bed sheets for the residents, bringing love and cheer
to each one as she went from room to room .

Surviving, in addition to her husband, are five children:

James Styer and his wife, Beth, of Telford, have two sons, Michael and Andrew. Michael and his wife Cate, and their son, Henry, live in Palo Alto, California. Andrew lives in New York City.

Mary Styer Schrock and her husband, Floyd, live in McMinnville, Oregon, and have three children: Peter lives in Pasadena, California; Jonathan lives in Bend, Oregon; daughter Susan Ellis and her husband Mark and their two sons, Eli and Curren, also live in Bend.

Lois Styer Halsel and her husband, Gary, live in Hellertown with their two children, son Ben and daughter Laura;

John Styer and his wife, Judy, of Framingham, Massachussetts, have a daughter Kate of Pittsburgh, and a son, Ben, of Framingham;

Alan Styer and his wife, Grace, of Greenford, Ohio, have three children: son Matt of
Philadelphia, and son Jon and daughter Amanda of Harrisonburg, Virginia.

There are a total of 12 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Each one brought special delight and joy to Edna.

Also surviving are a brother, Willard Benner and his wife, Marjorie, of Phoenixville; two sisters, Irene Alderfer of Souderton, and Dorothy Shenk and her husband, Paul, of Newport News, Virginia, and two sisters-in-law, Sarah Benner of Souderton and Vivian Benner of Harrisonburg, Virginia.

She was preceded in death by a stillborn son, Daryl Styer, and six brothers, Claude, Jacob, Paul,
Marvin, Edwin, and Merrill Benner.

More than anything, Edna's faith in Jesus Christ was real and unwavering. After raising her children, she had a real sensitivity to young women in distress and reached out to them with acceptance and love.

She had a tender heart for anyone who needed a friend. She cared about those in need and gave much of her time to help provide clothing to the poor through the Needleguild in Hatfield.

In the last 6 or 7 years, when serious illness brought changes to her life, she always believed and hoped for the best. It was disappointing to her when the outcome was not what she had hoped for, but she faced each challenge with grace, a positive attitude, and deep trust in a loving God.

Happy Belated Birthday to Eli

2009-03-28T19:42:00.004-07:00

Eli turned 5 on January 15th, but his Daddy was in India at the time, and then time passed and finally the time came to make the "castle cake" that he had requested. His birthday cakes are always a major production, thanks to mommy Susan! This one was made at Oma and Poppi's house last weekend, in the company of some of Eli's little friends. Fun time!!!!

Daffodils are Glorious

2009-03-26T07:05:00.004-07:00

Spring is really here....but a photo doesn't really capture it's full essence!

Peter showing up in Belfast!

2009-03-12T17:45:00.001-07:00

Just wanted to show you my daffodils.......

2009-03-10T20:41:00.002-07:00

Parenting seems to come easy.....

2009-03-07T18:36:00.003-08:00

Henry is growing up way too fast...........sure looks like they're all having lots of fun!

The Man Henry!

2009-03-02T23:34:00.003-08:00

Little Henry certainly looks to be thriving!!!!! And happy! Good job, Michael and Cate!!

Blessed we are!

2009-02-22T15:57:00.008-08:00

Recently the Benner aunts (Edna, Dorothy, Irene, Sarah, Vivian, Marjorie) and Nieces (Mary, Lois, Wilma and Kayla, Rhoda, Linda, Bev, Carolyn) had a wonderful lunch together at the Souderton Mennonite Home Sunflower Room. We spent about 4 hours reminiscing and enjoying the richness of our lives together over the last many years. We honored our Mom/Sister/Aunt Edna as well as our other aunts who have so faithfully modeled an honorable and Godly life before us. Our hearts and voices raised a joyous sound of music together. (As you can see, the group was infiltrated by Uncle/Dad Kermit. Uncle Paul was also in attendance! They were kind and gladly tolerated the ladies' chatter in exchange for a tasty lunch!!!)

Anything's a toy for CURREN

2009-01-30T13:37:00.002-08:00

Moving right along....

2009-01-18T21:02:00.003-08:00

The weather is still chilly, but the sunshine this weekend bodes well for spring flowers bursting forth....I thought I'd help the cause by planting some pansies!!! Spring is splendiferous!

Backyard Time

2009-01-13T20:40:00.005-08:00

Meeting of the Minds

2009-01-10T13:38:00.003-08:00

Josh and Kate

In the Eye of the Beholder

2009-01-10T13:35:00.007-08:00

It's hard for me to tell that this was an Ugly Sweater Party!!

Would this be Pittsburgh??

2009-01-10T13:34:00.003-08:00

Alan and Grace

Jim and Beth and Family

2009-01-08T18:45:00.002-08:00

Hanging out with Pop-pop

2009-01-06T06:59:00.003-08:00

Peter and Jonathan (and the rest of the Schrocks) spent 9 days in PA over Thanksgiving! Had a great time!!

The Schrock/Ellis kids go to New York

2009-01-06T06:56:00.003-08:00

Peter, Susan, Mark and Jonathan spent the better part of two days in New York City.........................walking..............

Happy Birthday, Dear Mom!! #84

2009-01-04T23:26:00.003-08:00

Mom turned 84 years old today!!! Yeah, Mom! (daughter Mary, mom, daughter Lois and granddaughter Susan)

Jim/Beth Famiy Gathering in Palo Alto

2009-01-04T19:50:00.004-08:00

Henry sleeps while Dad Michael, Mom Cate, and Uncle Andy do some sightseeing along the CA coast.

A New Grandpop Styer

2009-01-02T11:12:00.004-08:00

Looks like he has the touch! Little Henry looks perfectly content.

Vera Schrock and Family

2008-12-30T14:17:00.007-08:00

Here is the extended Vera (and Manassa) Schrock family gathering on Saturday, December 27 in Silverton, OR. Represented are Floyd and Mary with kids and grandkids, Peter, Mark and Susan with Eli and Curren, Jonathan; Barb and Don; and Jerry and Vevi with kids and grandkids, Marty and Mar'cia with Willow, Sophi, Thaile, and Naomi; Jill and David with Mia, Kai, Tallie and Seth; and Kari. (Ha-ha! You thought Jonathan wasn't there....take another look!)

A Happy Robin

2008-12-21T12:56:00.003-08:00

Floyd "captured" this fluffed-up robin enjoying our hawthorne berries in spite of the layer of ice coating everything this morning.

Lovely couple

2008-12-21T08:35:00.004-08:00

Alan and Grace attended the Witmer Inc. Employee Appreciation Dinner. (Of course, Grace was busy telling her employees what a good job they do. I'm sure they appreciate her, too!)

Another Happy Daddy

2008-12-21T08:33:00.001-08:00

Mark and his boys looking for the perfect tree!

One Very Happy Dad!!

2008-12-19T22:05:00.002-08:00

Eight week old Henry and his Daddy just hanging out together.....

Susan's Gingerbread Chapel

2008-12-19T11:17:00.002-08:00

Here's a masterpiece from Susan's kitchen!!

More Snow overnight

2008-12-19T09:05:00.003-08:00

We had 4-5 inches of snow overnight on top of the week's collection.......not our usual OR weather! It seemed troublesome all week, managing snow removal and staffing adjustments at work, but today I'm home and can actually enjoy the beauty of it all.

Headed for a White Christmas!

2008-12-18T22:50:00.003-08:00

The snow keeps coming here in our neighborhood......we took a walk tonight to enjoy the beauty!
Looks like it might stay around for awhile!!!

Henry at 7 weeks

2008-12-16T20:21:00.004-08:00

Grammy Beth (is that what you call yourself?) passed this photo along for our mutual enjoyment! What a special little boy! Can't wait to meet him in person!

The Arctic Blast 2008

2008-12-14T20:56:00.005-08:00

The Arctic Blast actually showed up in McMinnville.....serious snow started late afternoon, and a few hours later we had 4-5". It's dusty, dry snow......not the typical OREGON wet snow.

Thanksgiving 2008

2008-12-10T18:06:00.004-08:00

Back row: Peter, Floyd, Mary.....Middle row: Susan with Curren, Mom and Dad..... Front row: Mark with Eli, Jonathan

Lots of fun times together in PA over Thanksgiving.

Thanksgiving

2008-12-08T20:41:00.000-08:00

Here's a link to some photos from our Thanksgiving celebration in PA-

http://picasaweb.google.com/photozippy/Thanksgiving2008#slideshow/5274672298968598050

Meeting 1 Year Old Claire

2008-11-15T00:15:00.008-08:00

I met Claire Walton, the little one year old that I'm holding, last Saturday at the new Slow Train Coffee house nearby. Claire's mother is Kim Baerg Walton (she's standing up talking to me in the photo), daughter to cousin Louise Benner Baerg ! They live in the next town from here, but I hadn't yet met little Claire! Seems impossible, but true! Sweet little girl!

Daydreaming.....

2008-11-06T21:18:00.006-08:00

Floyd 26, Mary 25, Peter 3
Mary 31, Susan 4
Mary 32, Jonathan 2

Having scanned some of our favorite slides from years past, it's easy now to "travel down memory lane" and enjoy the sweet memories........imagine life without photos!

Henry Frederick Isadore Styer at One Week

2008-11-01T11:16:00.003-07:00

Here's new grandma, Beth, relishing her introduction to little Henry, son of Michael and Cate!
He appears amazingly advanced for his very young age of about 1 week!!!

Welcome little Henry!

2008-10-29T21:58:00.003-07:00

Just wanted to welcome little Henry to the Styer blog! Congratulations to Mom and Dad, Grandma and Grandpa! Looking forward to more photos of the whole family! Hope everyone's doing well!

A Saturday in October

2008-10-12T22:40:00.006-07:00

On Saturday afternoon, a gorgeous, blue-sky day, we visited a local "Pumpkin Patch" with Eli and Curren and their mom and dad! We took a hayride out to the cornfield where we found our way thru a maze to get to the pumpkin patch. There were also goats to feed, slides and rope swings to ride, a big pile of dirt with buried treasures to find, ending up with a warm hotdog and some Tillamook Ice Cream..........(Eli and I spent 4 hours there!!)

Rodeo at Sisters, Oregon

2008-09-21T22:04:00.010-07:00

We (Susan, Mark, Eli, Curren and I) went to the rodeo at Sisters, OR - a town close to Bend - on Saturday afternoon, along with Uncle Jerry, Aunt Vevi, Kari and her friends, Erica and Johnny from Ireland. To most of us, the world of the rodeo is new territory. It was exciting and lots of fun to watch. (Floyd is still away on his recruiting trip to South America.)
Susan Ellis: photographer.

Equator in Ecuador

2008-09-17T21:03:00.007-07:00

Floyd is finding himself in all kinds of amazing places, and sorry that he doesn't have the time to do more investigating. Doing College Fairs and visiting schools is the reason for all the travel.
Meanwhile, he's greatly missed here at home!! Home on Sunday, 9/28th.

Revisions

2008-09-03T23:34:00.003-07:00

Susan had emergency surgery on Monday evening for a tubal pregnancy.
We are so thankful for good doctors, hospitals and staff when you need them!!!
Susan is doing well. She just moves more slowly for the next few days.

We never know what a day may bring, but we certainly are grateful for
the promptings of God and for His care!!

We are grateful for friends who generously show their love by meals brought in, phone calls and visits.

Thankful!

2008-08-16T21:34:00.003-07:00

After doing some Saturday chores today, we decided to escape the >100 degree heat of the "valley" and headed to the coast. In honor of our 39th anniversary, we had a delicious, leisurely dinner in Oceanside, then meandered down the coast a ways before heading back home. We were going to walk on the beach after dinner, but we weren't prepared for the 40 degree drop in temperature! We are so thankful to God for the special relationship He has given us.

Special Effects

2008-08-15T23:35:00.002-07:00

OK, I'm playing again.......:)

Running happy!!

2008-08-11T23:24:00.003-07:00

We had Curren and Eli from noon Friday until Sunday evening while Mark and Susan were on an anniversary vacation. They are the most amazing little boys!!

Thirty-nine!

2008-08-11T23:15:00.004-07:00

It will be 39 years this Saturday since this photo was taken. I've been "playing" with a new website: www.picnik.com. (Susan, you shouldn't have.) I'd hate to tell you how much time I've spent "playing". Did you notice the yellow rose?? :) Anyway, life is good!

Summer Schrock Picnic

2008-08-11T22:09:00.003-07:00

Our Schrock family gathered in our backyard last evening. Vera, the mother of the clan, is seated on the far left. Her youngest son, Jerry is beside her. Her daughter Barb, is behind her, and of course, Floyd, the oldest son, is - well, you all know who he is!! We were blessed with Susan and company, Marty and company (red shirt) and Kari - all from the 3rd generation.
As you can see, the 4th generation is well represented. Missing were our Peter (CA) and Jonathan (OR), and Jerry's Jill (Ireland).

Celebration in Bend for Jonathan's 30th!!!!

2008-07-28T18:21:00.005-07:00

Climbing buddy and landlord, Dylan and wife Cheri, help celebrate with a "climbing wall" cake!!!
Curren helps Poppi husk the corn!
Curren stands alot, but still thinks crawling is faster and more efficient!
It was a fun time at the Ellis household over the weekend. We were together to celebrate Jonathan's turning 30. Perfect weather, good food, and special people all helped to make it a happy celebration!!

Alan's flowers and Patio

2008-07-27T12:52:00.003-07:00

The Patio Alan built last summer is lined with flowers this summer. We really enjoy sitting around a fire with friends in the evenings.

A Quiet Summer Evening in the Garden

2008-07-25T20:20:00.004-07:00

Is there anything more lovely and restful to the eyes than the colors of the earth! Many thanks to the Creator!!

Summer Softball

2008-07-21T19:29:00.006-07:00

This is a first for me - playing on a Coed Softball team in our city league with my coworkers!!!
Yesterday our team was up against a team with no losses, and we've had no wins!!! We were nervous at first, but possibly the challenge gave us an extra boost. No, we didn't win, but we gave great effort! Since I am the only 60 year old on the team, expectations are low. And they don't know my history of striking the boys out in the 8th grade!!! :) Anyway, I surprised my team (and myself) when I took the first pitch and dropped a nice fly between the 3rd baseman and the left fielder!! You bet I made it to first, and then was batted in to home to make the first point on the team!!!! I was only up to bat one more time, and after letting the first "ball" go by, I took the second pitch, hit it on the ground to the second base; they got the runner ahead of me out, but I made it again to first, and then was batted into home again for another point!!

It was a sunny, warm, breezy summer afternoon and my legs aren't used to running, but IT WAS FUN!!!

The photographer was one of my bosses (Dr. Schieber) who isn't playing softball right now because of a great toe fracture he got while getting out of the water after doing the swim part of a Triathalon. Although in pain, he went on to do the biking and the running part before taking the time to really check out his pain!

Curren

2008-07-13T09:04:00.002-07:00

Our Curren!

Downtown Festival in McMinnville

2008-07-13T09:01:00.003-07:00

The smiles just didn't quit!

Spending time at home with Mom and Dad

2008-06-30T23:04:00.003-07:00

Mom and Dad in their new home at Souderton Mennonite Home. I visited them last week and enjoyed getting a "taste" of life at such a lovely retirement community. I really should get my reservation in!!

Copyright Matt Styer

2008-06-16T20:37:00.003-07:00

I don't know when or where, but I like the cozy feel of this Dad/Sons photo in spite of what appears to be a cold day. Sorry, Matt, I couldn't help borrowing some material for this "family circle letter"- intended blog!!! :)
"Alan, the Man" is also borrowed!

Smith

2008-06-10T21:40:00.004-07:00

Jonathan climbs. Mark (with Curren on his back), Susan and Eli hike.

(Most of you know this, BUT in case you didn't know ...... if you click on the photo, it will enlarge. To return to the blog, click on the "left arrow" at the top left corner.)

Couch golf

2008-06-10T21:18:00.003-07:00

"Downtime" over the weekend in Bend included some "couch golf" games. We also broke sweat hiking (and rock climbing - the guys, that is) at Smith Rock State Park! Incredible scenery!

First Birthday!!

2008-06-10T20:48:00.003-07:00

We spent the weekend in Bend, celebrating Curren's First Birthday with Dad Mark, Mommy Susan, and big brother, Eli. Also present were Uncles Peter and Jonathan, and friends Kevin, Sarah, Pete, Lucas, and Gracie. The monkey cake was a hit, and tearing the paper off the presents was as much fun as the contents!

Currens makes us laugh with his "wrinklenose" face! Poppi and the boys spent a long time Sunday afternoon playing in the sandbox in the backyard.
(Eli was on a mission hunting spiders when the photo was taken!)

Pansies are Amazing

2008-06-01T16:02:00.004-07:00

A sister and a birthday

2008-05-27T20:14:00.004-07:00

I'm still enjoying this lovely pink bouquet that my sweet sister sent me for my milestone 60th birthday!!! A rather sobering event! On the other hand, I'm extremely grateful for a birthday at all!

Our sweet little Curren

2008-05-26T19:07:00.003-07:00

Precious times were spent with little Curren (12 months on 6/5/08) and his family this weekend. What an eager, friendly, and sweet little boy! He has a little trick of wrinkling up his nose when he smiles!!

Irises in my Garden

2008-05-22T21:51:00.002-07:00

This is a good year for my irises......they have multiplied and are brightening up the northwest corner of our yard!

Trip photos (5/9/08 - 5/19/08) visiting Germany, Switzerland, France, Bulgaria, and Turkey

2008-05-19T18:01:00.003-07:00

Coffee in downtown Sofia, Bulgaria with Leah.

The Alps - Switzerland

2008-05-19T17:54:00.006-07:00

A daytrip into Switzerland to see the Swiss Alps near Interlaken with

friends Pierre and Mary Jane (Kolb) Goldschmidt from France (near Basel, Switzerland.)

Trip photos

2008-05-19T17:53:00.003-07:00

Floyd and I in front of the famous Blue Mosque in Istanbul, Turkey.

Trip photos

2008-05-19T17:50:00.004-07:00

Vivi, age 8, and Gordi, age 5 - children of Leah and Ticho Tenev who live in Sofia, Bulgaria. Their mother, Leah, lived with us about 10 years ago while a student at Linfield. Gordi lost his first tooth while eating a huge strawberry during breakfast in Istanbul!!!! (See photo)

Trip photos

2008-05-19T17:48:00.002-07:00

Walking with the Tenev family in downtown Istanbul.

Vacation

2008-05-13T10:29:00.003-07:00

Today we found ourselves in a most unlikely place, roaming the downtown of Sofia, Bulgaria!
We started the day by visiting 8 year old Vivi's school for a special production created by the 2nd and 3rd graders on their computers, using Microsoft Power Point!! They were amazing!!

We visited cathedrals, a natural history museum, an outdoor market, a Chinese restaurant and an Onda Coffee Shop! We were on foot, and came home by way of a huge park, thru trees that resembled the woods of Pennsylvania.

Prior to our arrival at Sofia, we spent a couple days with old friends in France, taking a swing thru the Alps in Switzerland, and enjoying a piece of the life on their incredible "estate".

We keep pinching ourselves to remind us that we're not dreaming!!!
More later....

Romantic Couple

2008-04-28T22:07:00.007-07:00

Married March 9, 1946!!

And then came Alan!!

2008-04-26T22:24:00.003-07:00

What a sweet little brother he was.....and still is!!

More history....

2008-04-26T22:22:00.001-07:00

First came Jim, then Mary, then Lois, then John, and then......

1943-1945

2008-04-26T22:11:00.004-07:00

Here's Mom with her older sister, Irene. Lovely young ladies, wouldn't you say?!

More....

2008-04-23T21:14:00.003-07:00

The "story chair" got lots of use in those days....and I got my hair "played with"...........a great arrangement! I can feel the tingles on my spine just thinking about it, Peter!

More good memories...

2008-04-23T21:05:00.002-07:00

Grammy and Pop-pop Styer came to visit when Susan was 6 weeks old - 1975.

1973

2008-04-21T22:45:00.002-07:00

Long hair, short skirts, beards......

Summer's coming

2008-04-20T20:13:00.003-07:00

Curren's ready for summer, and so are the rest of us! But the chilly air of early spring hasn't lost it's grip yet.......

Comparison

2008-04-02T19:27:00.004-07:00

Here are both Eli (top), who is 4 years old now, and Curren at 10 months of age!

Eli in costume

2008-04-02T19:25:00.002-07:00

Do you recognize the little man?

Easter in Bend

2008-03-25T22:52:00.002-07:00

We spent a short weekend in Bend with Mark, Susan, Eli, Curren and Jonathan. Eli took a hike down by the river with Poppi (Floyd) and, among other things - learned to shoot things with a rubberband and a stick, and learned to follow a compass in the woods. Curren sat still briefly to check out a plastic "easter egg". He's a very busy little boy, crawling and climbing, reaching and grabbing, and just fun to be with.

Move In Day

2008-03-15T22:07:00.002-07:00

We took down the plastic dust walls, moved the furniture back in it's place, moved the stove and fridge in from the garage, and.......we have us a new kitchen! I've been going thru the boxes one by one finding new places for everything. Still have a ways to go......but it's fun!!!!

....today the countertops came....

2008-03-12T21:15:00.002-07:00

This is what I came home to tonight....tomorrow it's the flooring.
Things are happening fast now! Maybe we'll get to move into our
new kitchen this weekend. I am very happy!

Today the cabinets came....

2008-03-11T20:35:00.002-07:00

When I left for work this morning, the room was absolutely empty. By evening, I could see a kitchen coming!! Tomorrow the countertops come, then flooring the next day, then hopefully the plumbers and electricians will be able to come on Friday to hook things up. Then there's some trim to put up and then it's MOVE IN!!

Happy 62nd Anniversary, Mom and Dad

2008-03-09T20:38:00.004-07:00

Although married already for 35 years when this photo was taken in 1981 in Logsden, OR, their life together up to today totals 62 years! We are so grateful and wish them many more days of living and loving!!!

Meanwhile in the garden...

2008-03-09T20:26:00.002-07:00

............spring is just springing right up out of the ground!! Love this season!

Painting

2008-03-09T20:16:00.003-07:00

We painted the walls and ceiling yesterday. This evening we put primer on the trim pieces. We're getting there.......slowly.

The Old and the New...

2008-03-05T20:09:00.003-08:00

Here's the old and the new.....can't tell much difference? I guess you have to be here in the dust and dirt to see the beginning transformation! Tomorrow the guy will come to put the finish on the walls, and then I'll be painting this weekend. On Monday or Tuesday, the cabinets are supposed to be coming.....and then it's the downhill stretch!

March 1, 2008

2008-03-01T17:10:00.004-08:00

While Floyd and our contractor put new drywall in place, I spent the day enjoying the sunshine and digging in the dirt!!

Revisions at the Schrock house

2008-02-26T20:49:00.002-08:00

This used to be our kitchen. It's now an empty shell, but tomorrow the electrical will be finished, and then the drywall, then the cabinets, countertop and floor. Can hardly imagine having a NEW kitchen!!!

It's tough to decide among so many options for color and design. Am hoping that my decisions turn out OK!!!

BIG SNOW in Bend

2008-02-04T20:32:00.001-08:00

Uncle Jonathan and Eli making the best of the current situation in Bend!!

Four Candles

2008-02-04T20:26:00.000-08:00

Uncle Jonathan caught this moment!!

Meet the man.......

2008-01-29T21:01:00.001-08:00

Floyd