October 21, 2019 Here in New Jersey!
6 years ago
Christmas 2009
Christmas this year was nice and quiet, the way we like it...or at least for this year. Already have big plans for next year and hopefully....there will be tears. Here's a cute picture of TEK around the tree. I just love Christmas. Nevermind the lost key story, surprise root canal, or the allergic reaction....it still is Christmas.
Christmas 2009 letter
December 2009
Dear Friends and Family,
Season greetings. This year has been our year for footsteps of faith. We have learned not to take the little things for granted, because those are what make the memories. Each November, I begin placing a bug in Steve’s ear to put up the Christmas tree(s). We love Christmas, and the earlier I can begin this season the better. What better chance than to reflect on our Savior, Jesus Christ and all that he has done for us. We also put up a tree in memory of our baby boy, Keith whom we lost last year to a stillbirth. It’s a time where we reflect on his short life, but because of our Savior, we know we will see and be with him again.
This year we wanted to take the kids to the beautiful parks and places that surround our home. Mission accomplished (sort of)! Can you really visit every beautiful park and place in the Utah and surrounding regions? We have memories of the kids searching for a geo-cache at Goblin Valley State Park, climbing on the rock formations, and many games of hide-and-seek. Arches National Park brings us memories of running down sand hills, realizing our fear of heights as the kids tested their ability to look over ledges of cliffs, finding red sand in clothes, orifices, and camping gear months after the trip. Even a short trip to Zions National Park was pleasant, although the memories of paintball with cousins and adults, swimming in 32 degree weather, and allowing Kayla to drive a dune buggy are much more prominent. A short jaunt to Soda Springs, Idaho has given us memories of placing pennies on the train track, walks on the ranch, and of course the rambunctious sounds of water slides and screaming kids at Lava Hot Springs. Above all, we have loved being at home. We bought an above ground pool that we spent the summer playing in along with several neighborhood kids. We spent the first few weeks of fall trying to get the green out of our hair.
Steve is realizing that an office job isn’t as fun as being in classroom full of kids. Although he is tolerating his district job, he misses the reason why he went into education, for the children. He is enjoying being Cubmaster, and accomplishing building a shed this past summer. Sadly he gave a way his truck status for a sedan. Yes, it’s still a sensitive subject, new status for him, especially in Plain City where you are known for the size of truck you drive. An office job, a sedan, accomplishing tasks, what has this guy turned into?
I continue to enjoy my office job and teaching mostly online classes at Weber State. Can you tell who is the introvert? Although I did get out of my shell and helped write and publish a text and presented at a conference in Viva Las Vegas. Steve and the kids came down with me to that conference. We tried the all you can eat buffet, the strip, Medieval Knight tournament, Science discovery center, and the Circus Circus Adventure dome. We realized that we can find enjoyment in anyplace (even Vegas at 120 degrees) if you look hard enough for it. After months of complaints of playing the piano in primary, I have found a worse calling…Primary president. I have also been able to volunteer with the Share organization providing support to parents with pregnancy and infant losses. Of course, room Mom at the kids schools seems to be my favorite volunteer position.
Trevor has ventured to a new 5th grade accelerated learner program at a new school. Despite the difficult work, he is intrigued by the challenge. He has made new friends, but that won’t sever the ties of his Farr West pals. He is looking forward to returning to Farr West Elementary next year with his friends to ‘Rule the school’. Trevor got to come with me on a conference trip to Vegas last spring. It was nice to have some one on one with this fine young man. We found that Trevor is quite the distance runner and can out beat both his parents (and other adults who are actually in shape) in a 5K. Track maybe in his future, but soccer still seems to be his passion. Now if only he would practice the piano..…
Eric continues to be the social boy and loves his 3rd grade year. His compassion for others has grown particularly for his teacher who is in a wheelchair, and he loves to be the one to ‘steer her chair’. When asked what he did in school, it was always something on the field in a soccer game. Eric chose to be baptized and confirmed this year. We were and are so proud of him. He is also enjoying Cub Scouts. Whether basketball, baseball, soccer (indoor or outdoor), or tennis, Eric will prove that size matters not. Not that I’m a financial advisor, but as long as Eric plays sports, I’d advise investing in blue jeans and tennis shoes which he just tears to shreds.
Kayla, Kayla, Kayla what can we say about this little girl? For starts, she loves her Kindergarten class at Farr West Elementary. Even with her militant style teacher, Kayla loves to assist. Her passion is by far the school bus ride to and from school. She carries her own with her brothers and can even put in a few acts of drama to incentivize any situation. We can say that after years of watching her brother’s soccer games it has paid off. She is by far the star of her soccer team, especially when we put a twinkie in the soccer goal. She is just so much more inclined to make the goal! She is loving gymnastics and is always asking “How many back hand springs was that Mom?”
Well that sums up our family for the year 2009. If it sounds too good, than I forgot to mention the tears, the nervous breakdowns, and hardships that life has given us. If it sounds too rough, than I failed to mention the ‘big hugs’, one on one bed time routine, or the simple words of ‘I love you’ that have helped us to endure. Regardless of what the future may hold, we feel blessed beyond measures.
May you enjoy this holiday season with your loved ones. Your continual support and friendship has helped us so much. One reason I enjoy writing Christmas letters is to express my thanks to you for all of your help. Thank you and may God bless you. May you enjoy this remarkable Christmas season and have peace as you reflect on this year and the years to come.
Love the Merkleys,
Steve, Heather, Trevor, Eric, & Kayla
& our Angels soaring over us.
December 2009
Dear Friends and Family,
Season greetings. This year has been our year for footsteps of faith. We have learned not to take the little things for granted, because those are what make the memories. Each November, I begin placing a bug in Steve’s ear to put up the Christmas tree(s). We love Christmas, and the earlier I can begin this season the better. What better chance than to reflect on our Savior, Jesus Christ and all that he has done for us. We also put up a tree in memory of our baby boy, Keith whom we lost last year to a stillbirth. It’s a time where we reflect on his short life, but because of our Savior, we know we will see and be with him again.
This year we wanted to take the kids to the beautiful parks and places that surround our home. Mission accomplished (sort of)! Can you really visit every beautiful park and place in the Utah and surrounding regions? We have memories of the kids searching for a geo-cache at Goblin Valley State Park, climbing on the rock formations, and many games of hide-and-seek. Arches National Park brings us memories of running down sand hills, realizing our fear of heights as the kids tested their ability to look over ledges of cliffs, finding red sand in clothes, orifices, and camping gear months after the trip. Even a short trip to Zions National Park was pleasant, although the memories of paintball with cousins and adults, swimming in 32 degree weather, and allowing Kayla to drive a dune buggy are much more prominent. A short jaunt to Soda Springs, Idaho has given us memories of placing pennies on the train track, walks on the ranch, and of course the rambunctious sounds of water slides and screaming kids at Lava Hot Springs. Above all, we have loved being at home. We bought an above ground pool that we spent the summer playing in along with several neighborhood kids. We spent the first few weeks of fall trying to get the green out of our hair.
Steve is realizing that an office job isn’t as fun as being in classroom full of kids. Although he is tolerating his district job, he misses the reason why he went into education, for the children. He is enjoying being Cubmaster, and accomplishing building a shed this past summer. Sadly he gave a way his truck status for a sedan. Yes, it’s still a sensitive subject, new status for him, especially in Plain City where you are known for the size of truck you drive. An office job, a sedan, accomplishing tasks, what has this guy turned into?
I continue to enjoy my office job and teaching mostly online classes at Weber State. Can you tell who is the introvert? Although I did get out of my shell and helped write and publish a text and presented at a conference in Viva Las Vegas. Steve and the kids came down with me to that conference. We tried the all you can eat buffet, the strip, Medieval Knight tournament, Science discovery center, and the Circus Circus Adventure dome. We realized that we can find enjoyment in anyplace (even Vegas at 120 degrees) if you look hard enough for it. After months of complaints of playing the piano in primary, I have found a worse calling…Primary president. I have also been able to volunteer with the Share organization providing support to parents with pregnancy and infant losses. Of course, room Mom at the kids schools seems to be my favorite volunteer position.
Trevor has ventured to a new 5th grade accelerated learner program at a new school. Despite the difficult work, he is intrigued by the challenge. He has made new friends, but that won’t sever the ties of his Farr West pals. He is looking forward to returning to Farr West Elementary next year with his friends to ‘Rule the school’. Trevor got to come with me on a conference trip to Vegas last spring. It was nice to have some one on one with this fine young man. We found that Trevor is quite the distance runner and can out beat both his parents (and other adults who are actually in shape) in a 5K. Track maybe in his future, but soccer still seems to be his passion. Now if only he would practice the piano..…
Eric continues to be the social boy and loves his 3rd grade year. His compassion for others has grown particularly for his teacher who is in a wheelchair, and he loves to be the one to ‘steer her chair’. When asked what he did in school, it was always something on the field in a soccer game. Eric chose to be baptized and confirmed this year. We were and are so proud of him. He is also enjoying Cub Scouts. Whether basketball, baseball, soccer (indoor or outdoor), or tennis, Eric will prove that size matters not. Not that I’m a financial advisor, but as long as Eric plays sports, I’d advise investing in blue jeans and tennis shoes which he just tears to shreds.
Kayla, Kayla, Kayla what can we say about this little girl? For starts, she loves her Kindergarten class at Farr West Elementary. Even with her militant style teacher, Kayla loves to assist. Her passion is by far the school bus ride to and from school. She carries her own with her brothers and can even put in a few acts of drama to incentivize any situation. We can say that after years of watching her brother’s soccer games it has paid off. She is by far the star of her soccer team, especially when we put a twinkie in the soccer goal. She is just so much more inclined to make the goal! She is loving gymnastics and is always asking “How many back hand springs was that Mom?”
Well that sums up our family for the year 2009. If it sounds too good, than I forgot to mention the tears, the nervous breakdowns, and hardships that life has given us. If it sounds too rough, than I failed to mention the ‘big hugs’, one on one bed time routine, or the simple words of ‘I love you’ that have helped us to endure. Regardless of what the future may hold, we feel blessed beyond measures.
May you enjoy this holiday season with your loved ones. Your continual support and friendship has helped us so much. One reason I enjoy writing Christmas letters is to express my thanks to you for all of your help. Thank you and may God bless you. May you enjoy this remarkable Christmas season and have peace as you reflect on this year and the years to come.
Love the Merkleys,
Steve, Heather, Trevor, Eric, & Kayla
& our Angels soaring over us.
New pics
I had Pat Wimpee (the photographer from NILMDTS) take our 2009 family photo's. These are just some of my favorites.
Fun in Southern Utah
I have accomplished one of my goals!! I wanted to introduce the kids to the beauty of Southern Utah Parks. We went to Goblin valley just because we loved it so much before. Then over to Arches National Park. The kids loved playing in the sand dunes, hiking to some of the arches, and searching for lizards.
Eric was also baptized on June 6, 2009. We're so proud of him. Another accountable child Yikes!
I suck at keeping up w/ blogs
Earlier in April Trevor went with me to Las Vegas for a conference. We splurged and went to the Tournament of the Kings at Excalibur. We were on the front row cheering on the evil team. Need I say more how much my 10 year old son enjoyed this. He is a good kid. I love him so much.
Zions on the day it didn't snow (yes we had snow on April 25 in Zions).
The paintball game. Notice my 'upper thigh' injury. You should see my mask or my teeth. Eric was our teams secret weapon. Who was strong, quick and fast. We love our Er Bear! Thanks for helping us win Eric!
Kayla loves horseback riding, What would I do without my little lady? Thanks Kayla for just being you. I love you princess.
Ok all of you who maintain blogs so well. How the *!?O..* do you do it? I admit I suck at it. I wanted my kids/family to help with the family blog, but since it has come down to my responsibility to maintain. I just can't do it. SO those of you who look at this (Teresa & Jenica) bear with the quarterly updates.
We just got back from going to Zions Ponderosa with my family and had a blast and thought I'd share some pictures of our paintball expedition. Don't ask how my brother got nailed so well. Haven't you ever heard of people coming back from the dead?
Once I remember to bring my camera to work, I will upload some pictures of our "Merkster Day" held on March 7. Each person made an activity and were responsible for getting all the 'stuff' for it. It was a success, but very messy, mainly thanks to Steve's tie dye shirts.
In the mean time, I am asking for input (on facebook and here) on a future family trip to Southern Utah. I'd like to show TEK many of the national and state parks, but am also looking at other places (ie Toucan theatre, Utah Summer games etc). Does anyone know any great places to stay. We'll probably take the tent trailer, but I will need showers at least weekly. Are there any good KOA's? Please post a comment to help me! Thank you in advance.
In the mean time, I am asking for input (on facebook and here) on a future family trip to Southern Utah. I'd like to show TEK many of the national and state parks, but am also looking at other places (ie Toucan theatre, Utah Summer games etc). Does anyone know any great places to stay. We'll probably take the tent trailer, but I will need showers at least weekly. Are there any good KOA's? Please post a comment to help me! Thank you in advance.
Top 10 reasons to get a bunny
Ok we (Heather, Trevor, Eric, and Kayla) found a bunny that we really want to have. The problem is Dad or Steve thinks bunnies should be for dinner NOT as a pet. So in trying to persuade him we wrote down the top 10 reasons to get this bunny we found on ksl.
1. he's so cute, come on Dad
2. Trevor will clean his cage twice a day (ha ha ha ha)
3. Eric will feed him a carrot after he's done with his dinner carrots.
4. Eric will jump rope with it..don't bunnies hop?
5. We can pet it.
6. Kayla will let her play princesses with me.
7. We'll take it on walks (shh don't tell Obi...he's not sure when HIS last walk was).
8. Kayla will read books to her (shh don't tell Kayla it is a he, she's quite outnumbered in our family as it is and may argue when she finds it is a he).
9. We can take it for show and tell a whole one time.
10.Trevor will run with it, don't bunnies run relays?
So any recommendations...Are we ready for bunny responsibility? Please Daddy.... To be continued in bunny years.
1. he's so cute, come on Dad
2. Trevor will clean his cage twice a day (ha ha ha ha)
3. Eric will feed him a carrot after he's done with his dinner carrots.
4. Eric will jump rope with it..don't bunnies hop?
5. We can pet it.
6. Kayla will let her play princesses with me.
7. We'll take it on walks (shh don't tell Obi...he's not sure when HIS last walk was).
8. Kayla will read books to her (shh don't tell Kayla it is a he, she's quite outnumbered in our family as it is and may argue when she finds it is a he).
9. We can take it for show and tell a whole one time.
10.Trevor will run with it, don't bunnies run relays?
So any recommendations...Are we ready for bunny responsibility? Please Daddy.... To be continued in bunny years.
A dumb dog moment
Ok for all you dumb dog lovers, I have to share this story (sorry no pictures, I was too mad)
I was making two heart shape cakes for Kayla's birthday. The neighbors were over and wanted to help frost the cakes. So to speed up the process I placed the two cakes on the floor (yes I know stupid idea) in the garage. I verified that Obi was outside in the BACKyard. Then I continued to talk to my friend about Venture Academy and making dinner. A few minutes later, Trevor came in and said "Mom is it ok that Obi is eating Kayla's birthday cakes"? I had to pause (since I was on the phone) and take all of this in. "No" I yelled! Opened the door to the garage door to see our very well loved dumb dog going to town on the two birthday cakes! I was so mad! I yelled to Steve to "Make himself useful" (our marriage motto) and to turn off the superbowl game. He graciously came up finished making dinner. I got off the phone and immediately dumped out what was left of Kayla's birthday cakes, washed dishes, sent the neighbors home, and began (again) making two new heart shape valentine birthday cakes. Which to let it be known the girls (Kayla and her twin cousin Katelyn born one day later) could have cared less about eating. They were too busy with their new toys! But it made for fun comments when my dad asked now are these the cakes that Obi ate first? We love our dumb dog and couldn't imagine life without him!
I was making two heart shape cakes for Kayla's birthday. The neighbors were over and wanted to help frost the cakes. So to speed up the process I placed the two cakes on the floor (yes I know stupid idea) in the garage. I verified that Obi was outside in the BACKyard. Then I continued to talk to my friend about Venture Academy and making dinner. A few minutes later, Trevor came in and said "Mom is it ok that Obi is eating Kayla's birthday cakes"? I had to pause (since I was on the phone) and take all of this in. "No" I yelled! Opened the door to the garage door to see our very well loved dumb dog going to town on the two birthday cakes! I was so mad! I yelled to Steve to "Make himself useful" (our marriage motto) and to turn off the superbowl game. He graciously came up finished making dinner. I got off the phone and immediately dumped out what was left of Kayla's birthday cakes, washed dishes, sent the neighbors home, and began (again) making two new heart shape valentine birthday cakes. Which to let it be known the girls (Kayla and her twin cousin Katelyn born one day later) could have cared less about eating. They were too busy with their new toys! But it made for fun comments when my dad asked now are these the cakes that Obi ate first? We love our dumb dog and couldn't imagine life without him!
Yea, it is finally raining. Hopefully this inversion crud is leaving Utah. It is terrible. To let you know what is going on in our lifes is as follows:
Kayla: planning for your 5th birthday, walking around in heels
Eric:playing rec. basketball, loving second grade, Yugi-oh
Trevor: playing basketball, birthday party for friend Cody, and taking a Iowa test to see if I want to attend the PALS program. Lots of lots of school
Heather: enjoyed the inauguration from the TV in a 68 degree room, anxiously awaiting how WSU is going to handle the economy and if my job will slip to adjunct rather then faculty status, running around the kids to their preschool, piano, basketball, playdates, parties. Did I mention I love this stuff? This is truly the best time of my life with my kids...while they still like me.
Steve: coaching Trevor's basketball, internning at two schools, trying to get a principal job lined up for next year, and enjoying time with the family
Obi(the dog):Enjoys running over to the neighbors for snacks and his selective hearing. He can hear his dog food hitting his dog dish a mile away, but if we're calling his name...never has seen or heard of us in our life! We love the Merkleys
Kayla: planning for your 5th birthday, walking around in heels
Eric:playing rec. basketball, loving second grade, Yugi-oh
Trevor: playing basketball, birthday party for friend Cody, and taking a Iowa test to see if I want to attend the PALS program. Lots of lots of school
Heather: enjoyed the inauguration from the TV in a 68 degree room, anxiously awaiting how WSU is going to handle the economy and if my job will slip to adjunct rather then faculty status, running around the kids to their preschool, piano, basketball, playdates, parties. Did I mention I love this stuff? This is truly the best time of my life with my kids...while they still like me.
Steve: coaching Trevor's basketball, internning at two schools, trying to get a principal job lined up for next year, and enjoying time with the family
Obi(the dog):Enjoys running over to the neighbors for snacks and his selective hearing. He can hear his dog food hitting his dog dish a mile away, but if we're calling his name...never has seen or heard of us in our life! We love the Merkleys
Jan 11,2009
Now that we are back and full throttle into the new year, I thought I better sit down with the kids and set some new years resolution. Here they are as follows:
Steve: 1. obtain an administrative job. 2. Be on time to my church meetings (he said this right after the Bishop called wondering where he was and why not at his meeting. I guess part of me is wearing off on him.
Heather: 1. I will loose at least 10 pounds. I promise by Christmas I will be toner. 2. Do acts of service in memory of Keith. I know he is watching over me and I need to assist others in returning the favor. 3. Be more patient with TEK
Trevor: 1. I want to learn the types of rocks in Utah. 2. Hike to the top of Ben Lomond mountain. 3. Go searching for gems at Topaz mountain. 4. Read the Book of Mormon.
Eric: 1: 1. I want to do a whip in gymnastics. 2. I want to sing a solo at my Baptism. 3. Read all Junie B. books. 4. Be nicer to my brother and sister.
Kayla: 1. start Kindergarten in the fall. 2. Have my baby brother with me by being a nice sister.
3. Bear my testimony in church all by myself. 4. I want to learn how to read.
Well this sums up some of our new years resolutions. Yesterday we went to the Super Reader Party down in SLC. Curious George and the man with the yellow hat were there. I was sure proud of TEK for qualifying to go again. We began going six years ago with just Trevor. Following Eric and the Kayla qualified to attend. Go TEK!
Steve: 1. obtain an administrative job. 2. Be on time to my church meetings (he said this right after the Bishop called wondering where he was and why not at his meeting. I guess part of me is wearing off on him.
Heather: 1. I will loose at least 10 pounds. I promise by Christmas I will be toner. 2. Do acts of service in memory of Keith. I know he is watching over me and I need to assist others in returning the favor. 3. Be more patient with TEK
Trevor: 1. I want to learn the types of rocks in Utah. 2. Hike to the top of Ben Lomond mountain. 3. Go searching for gems at Topaz mountain. 4. Read the Book of Mormon.
Eric: 1: 1. I want to do a whip in gymnastics. 2. I want to sing a solo at my Baptism. 3. Read all Junie B. books. 4. Be nicer to my brother and sister.
Kayla: 1. start Kindergarten in the fall. 2. Have my baby brother with me by being a nice sister.
3. Bear my testimony in church all by myself. 4. I want to learn how to read.
Well this sums up some of our new years resolutions. Yesterday we went to the Super Reader Party down in SLC. Curious George and the man with the yellow hat were there. I was sure proud of TEK for qualifying to go again. We began going six years ago with just Trevor. Following Eric and the Kayla qualified to attend. Go TEK!
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