November Highlights

We had a sleep over for Daisy & Kaeley the end of October. Clark stayed home for a break from his sisters.
I gave Ondalynn my fine china and goblets. This was the pattern she chose and used at Thanksgiving. Baby Ivan was born on Nov. 3rd, the same day as Vivi. We were so grateful to welcome grandchild number 25 to our family. I flew to Hawaii on Friday, Nov. 10th to help Meredith. I returned Tues. evening, Nov. 21st. Emily & Bronson arrived the next day from Provo. We made apple pies in preparation for Thanksgiving. They helped me with the Sweet Potato Pie the next morning, and they also started the Christmas decorating before we left for Thanksgiving at the Vance's.

Sunday, Nov. 26th Addison turned 14. We drove down to Eugene that morning, and were there in time for their 9 am Sacrament meeting. Then we attended his Priesthood Quorum where Seth ordained him a Teacher. It was a special time to be with him on that important day in his life.

We enjoyed a family Book Club this month, too. The book was "The Remains of the Day."

Ivan's Birth

Meredith & Bryan’s 5th child, 3rd son, Ivan Finn Williams, was born on Nov. 3rd. He was a good size at, 9lbs. 5 oz., 21.5 inches. Unfortunately, he got pneumonia within 24 hours and had to stay in the hospital for 8 days. I flew to Hawaii on Nov 10th to help this busy family. He came home from the hospital the day after I arrived, so the timing was good. I loved being there for this special time with this cute family. I returned home on Tues. evening before Thanksgiving.

Meredith is a wonderful mother and it was a joy to be there to help her. The children are so cute and so busy. I had my hands full, but I loved it. I probably did too much as I cleaned cupboards, organized her spices, made meals, bulk pancake mix, played with the children, read to them, cleared Meredith's shower and did so thorough cleaning in the family room with Evelyn's help. Cleaning is my strength, so it seems I gravitate to doing that when I go to help my daughters. I probably should have "chilled" more and played more with the kids, but I'm glad I could be a help.

The first Sunday I was there we drove to a beach that evening. I didn't really do anymore sightseeing except the last Sunday there we drove to the Laie Temple and that was a special time. Hawaii is so spectacular, warm, and inviting. I loved being there with this special family.

Evelyn was a good help. Meredith & I visited Christian's school one morning to see one of his school projects. He was so surprised and happy to see us. Hudson is quite the character. He has Meredith's radiant smile and he melts your heart. One day were playing a game in FHE and on his paper he wrote,, "Grandma has a crush on me." So cute! Jocelyn was my little partner. I loved getting better acquainted with her and we enjoyed a little walk one day to the park where we saw a double rainbow. She adores her little baby brother, Ivan.

Ivan is a very content little baby. He's so easy, but apparently all of Meredith's children have been that way at first. Bryan works incredibly long hours. We hardly see him, but life is always fun when he's there. He and Meredith are such patient, great parents. We are so proud of them. We are grateful for this precious baby that has joined our family, making 25 grandchildren!!!

Thanksgiving at the Vance's

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving weekend with the Vance’s, who hosted everyone in their home, Seth’s family came up from Eugene, Emily & Bronson from Provo, and the Caudle’s some of the time as we share them with Brett’s family. The Vance's did such a great job hosting all of us. The food was so delicious. Ondalynn bought a roaster to do the turkey in as her oven is so small. It worked out perfectly. The children and some adults had fun in the family football game that afternoon.

Friday we had a family baptism event in the temple, with five of our grandchildren. I stayed with Bryson & Asher while the others were in the temple. All of our family are doing well. We’re grateful for so many blessings that our Heavenly Father has showered upon us. We’re thankful for technology that helps keep our family connected in many ways. We have so much to be thankful for. The Lord is mindful of our family.