Hendrickson Family Blog

New Denise & Denny Blog

2012-01-28T22:40:00.000-08:00

http://denisedenny.blogspot.com/?psinvite=ALRopfVNU5G7Fh7_xtKB7RojR8MiJsap7w3v1wKnm4Phw-k3igar9g3MZUKgBmJAMMOvoDowQveSQQAQIziq-JIJ2vZDZX6oJA

Click this to do to our new Denise & Denny blog

One More Elder Holland Memory

2012-01-24T09:19:00.000-08:00

One more memory from the Elder Holland visit to our Stake. As the Stake Presidency met with him prior to the first session, Elder Holland asked that they kneel in prayer. Pres Lee said that Pres Frederickson just had his hip replaced and couldn't kneel. Elder Holland said, "That's OK. In the the group I am in, about half of us can't kneel." I still chuckle when I think of that. So, anyone out there who can't kneel (Denise, etc) you are in good company.

Thoughts on Elder Holland's Visit to Spokane

2012-01-17T11:44:00.000-08:00

Here are a few of my impressions on Elder Holland's visit to Spokane last weekend:

1. He was concerned that people are receiving personal direction from the Spirit. The last thing he did was to have each member of the Stake Presidency answer what personal inspiration they had received. He said he was not referring to anything he said or did. It was what the Spirit said to them.
2. He was focused while he was here. Perhaps as focused as anyone I have ever met. It made me think that I am too light minded some of the time. I don’t mean that he wasn’t very cordial kind and gracious, because he was. He wasn’t pushy or anything like that. But it felt to me like it was as though he felt strongly the importance of what he was doing here. Like it was critical that he listen to the promptings of the Spirit and not miss anything. It was almost like life or death.

3. He was not interested in any sort of new programs or anything different that our stake might be doing and by the way, our stake presidency does everything they can not to create new programs. In fact, he expressed concern at one very minor thing that was done that was different than the basic program of the church. In fact, the impression I had was that we should use our creativity (and we have many very creative people in our ward and stake). We should use our creativity to help people. We should use it within the structure of the Church to make people’s lives better. Let those creative juices flow toward coming up with ways to bring someone back, to reach our children, to share the Gospel, help someone get employment, etc
4. When we left he specifically asked the Stake Presidency to communicate to you how much he loves us in a very interesting way. I think I remember he said. We (meaning he and Elder Bussey) know they (meaning you) love us, but I want them to know that we love them and have appreciated being able to be here.

Favorite Christmas Things...add yours to our list!!!

2011-12-07T21:13:00.001-08:00

1. Favorite Christmas movie...A Christmas Carol (with George C Scott)

2. Favorite Song (popular)...Grown up Christmas Wish by Amy Grant...honorable mention...Chipmunks singing Christmas,Christmas time is here...

3. Favorite Christmas Carol...Silent Night

4. Favorite sweet treat...Williamsburg Pecan Bars

5. Favorite savory treat...shrimp

6. Favorite game to play...our draw and describe game

7. Favorite Christmas Dinner...ham, MFPs, fruit salad, Green Salad and various desserts.

8. Favorite tradition...opening one present on Christmas Eve and reading the Christmas story from the Bible...Also leaving cookies for Santa and oats and sugar cubes for the reindeer.

9. Favorite gift...the rocking chair from Dad when I was expecting Rachel.

Well, that pretty well sums me up and nothing surprising there.

MOMO

2011-11-20T10:58:00.001-08:00

Thanksgiving Pictures Comments - Photobucket

THINGS WE ARE THANKFUL FOR.

2011-11-20T10:06:00.001-08:00

1. Our relationship...we love and enjoy each other so much.
2. Our children and their desire to do what the Lord would have them do.
3. The Gospel of Jesus Christ in our lives. We know He lives! Our lives are touched each day by our Heavenly Father.
4. Living in a free country. Our fathers fought in WWII and we each have brothers who are veterans. We are grateful for our freedom. We do not take this blessing lightly. One of great things we have been able to do was visit Washington DC and see Arlington Cemetery, the WWII memorial, the VietNam wall and other great monuments...it was a wonderful visit. Again, we were reminded that freedom is not free and others have given the ultimate sacrifice for us..
5. The blessings of the Temple. We are so grateful to have a temple in Spokane. Recently, we met in the Temple with dear friends while we watched as an adopted baby was sealed to his parents. What a beautiful day. Families are Forever!!!
6. Humor...we laugh much each day...I love to laugh until I am almost in tears and then what a feeling of joy and happiness. Dad and I laugh all the time...we do enjoy each other's silliness.
7. Our dear little grandchildren...Ella, Macy, Piper, Zach, Nick and Ibaby. The times spent with these little ones are our greatest joy...and they make us laugh much as they grow and develop.
8. Health. After having one of my knees replaced this year I am glad to doing better and having much less pain....so much easier to walk and get around. Denny is outside shoveling right now...strong and busy and always doing good.
9. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. So grateful to be members of the true church. I am so grateful for all the chances I have to serve. Always glad to have Sunday come around when I am able to go, renew my covenants and get spiritually recharged. We are grateful to be a part of the great work which is the Restoration of Jesus Christ.
10. Grateful for good friends who are like family to us and ready to help us whenever we need it.
11. We have a warm home which protects us on cold days like today.
12. Dad is grateful for Fantasy Football which brings him entertainment each day. I am still winning with my team...which he put together for me.
13. Grateful for great ancestors who came before us and led the way.
14. Technology which allows to talk to each other almost everyday...allows us to see pictures of our little grandsons who we have not met yet. We see Macy giggling, Ella dancing and Piper riding her bike and feel like we are right there. Air planes which bring us to our families or them to us.
15. That we are friends with our children and their spouses...you are our favorite people in the world.
16. Our jobs...we are blessed to be working and enjoying our jobs...they are not anything flashy but we help make the world go round.
17. I love this time of year...Thanksgiving and then right into Christmas...the sights, the music, the colors, the aromas, the lights...all of it. Dad is very enthusiastic about getting decorations up and then down....he out in the garage trying to make all the tubs get in.
18. Basketball...NCAA...especially Gonzaga :) but also BYU, WSU and other teams...although NOT St. Mary's or Loyola Marymount. Actually most sports and glad to be to watch it on our nice, big TV.
19. This wonderful computer, a gift from each of you, which allows us to communicate, learn and see each other.
20. Our lives...we are grateful to be alive now and share our lives with you. We love you.

Momo and Papster.

OUR BABY IS 25!!!

2011-11-06T19:59:00.000-08:00

Cannot believe that Becca is 25...it was not that long ago that we brought home this little bundle of cuteness.

She was a funny little girl who kept us laughing. Example"I want a wed wing wet" (I want a red swing set)...and other such statements.

She made up dances and when she started them we told her there had to be an end...she could not just dance all night with us watching.

She did not like sandwiches from the time she was a baby...still does not for the most part.

She loved "Good conversation" at bedtime from the time she was little.

She was a good friend and had many good friends.

She was the first one to get married. She picked a wonderful husband.

She was the first one to make us grandparents...She is a wonderful mother to Ella and Piper.

She is a wonderful homemaker...we love to visit her and her family.

She is a darling daughter whom we are very proud of...We love you BECCA.

2011-11-03T12:35:00.001-07:00

Nick & Zack are Here!!!!

ONLY IN SPOKANE!!!

2011-09-18T18:32:00.000-07:00

Dad and I went to the Rockwood Bakery to see if they had cupcakes...actually, we knew they did. It is a lovely little bakery on 18th by Manito Park. I recently had purchased the "Little Angel" cupcakes for my friend Jill's birthday and brought home a couple of them for dad...he said it was the best thing he had every tasted....so off we went on Saturday....now most of you have been to cupcake places so you know the selection...so many to select from...actually they had 3 kinds..."Little Angel", "Poppyseed" and then "Little Devil" cupcakes...Dad loves chocolate and I could only have one bite and so I ordered the "Little Devil" for my Big Angel and he said it was very, very delicious. He actually liked the "Little Angel" one a wee bit better than the "Little Devil" SHOCK!!!! These are amazing cupcakes...either flavor...so when you come to Spokane you be will traveling to the Rockwood Bakery for a cupcake of your choice...now you may have eaten a cupcake in New York City, Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Antonio, Salt Lake City or Vegas...but here in Spokane this is where we BEGIN the cupcake search.

PRESENTING MY NEW KNEE AND PRETTY TOES TO GO WITH.

2011-07-22T16:24:00.000-07:00

Here is my new knee...I do not think it is too bad. It has been 5 weeks now and when I speak of having the other one done I have stopped saying "H*** NO". It is getting better everyday. My husband has been amazing....cooks, cleans, does laundry and for awhile helped me get dressed...I owe him big. And since I have been doing so well he took me out for a pedicure. He is truly amazing and I love him SOOOOO much....more than the pain of the knee surgery and that is a lot.

It's Andy's Birthday

2011-07-17T18:47:00.000-07:00

Ten Things We Love about Andy:

1. He has an awesome sense of humor

2. He is the most knowledgable person on sports we know (not unlike his Grandpa Bill)

3. He has great knowledge in his chosen profession and gives up great advice.

4. He has good taste in women....notably...Stefany

5. He is a great Dad

6. He is our only and favorite son.

7. He loves the Gospel.

8. He loves serving and helping others. He looks out for the underdog.

9. He is a great brother to his sisters.

10. He does a great Bill Walton imitation.

Wedding and Birthday Pics

2011-07-02T21:47:00.001-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY RACHEL

2011-04-27T10:23:00.000-07:00

REASONS TO LOVE RACHEL

1. She watches out for me and I am assuming she watches out for you as well.
2. She is loyal to her sports teams...regardless of how well or bad they perform.
3. She makes me laugh and when I hear her laugh I laugh more.
4. She is a loyal friend and keeps in touch with about a million people.
5. She is modest :)
6. She is a fabulous cook.
7. She helps me be organized.
8. She makes amazing soda cracker toffee, peanut butter "Truffles" and Chinese Chicken Salad.
9. We watch a lot of the same shows and I appreciate her input.
10. She took my small award show theme dinner and has really expanded on it and I want to go to her house.
11. She was our first born and let us "practice" on her.
12. She makes me want to be a better housekeeper...not often a mother says that about her daughter.
13. She love Jane Austen.
14. She travels to places I want to go to and tells me all about them.
15. She "experienced" Boston with me and "Budge" and heard me get yelled at about Hillary Clinton.
16. She loved George Stephanopolous first.
17. She discovered Baby Einstein.
18. She is righteous and very dedicated to the Gospel.
19. She love People magazine and therefore I save them for her.
20. Millions of other reasons...but these are some of the few.

Happy Birthday Day Rachel!!!

We Love YOU!!!!

Top (5 or so) Favorite TV Hosts (Reality or other)

2011-04-07T20:43:00.000-07:00

I thought it would be fun to compare our lists of favorite hosts on TV...Either reality shows or reward shows or whatever.

9 - 5 , A Broadway Musical to Miss

2011-03-30T08:17:00.000-07:00

Last year, Denise and I bought tickets to some Broadway Musicals in order to get tickets to "Wicked" which comes in May. We are excited to see that. Last Saturday however, we went to "9 to 5". Quick Review: Inapproriate parts - many Lyrics - uninteresting Plot - same as movie Sets - lackluster Songs - nothing memorable We left as soon as we could.

They say when you make a plan God laughs....

2011-02-22T09:41:00.000-08:00

So I went into the Orthopedic Surgeon with a PLAN...Total knee replacement the week of April 14th, thus allowing me at the end of the 8 weeks off from work to attend my daughter Sarah's wedding with a new knee...seemed SO good, seemed SO simple, seemed SO organized. I also wanted to have it done at Deaconess Medical Center because I know that hospital and they have private rooms only (which seems so simple for a hosptal...who wants to be with a stranger when you are at your VERY worst) and SO...I am having a total knee replacement JUNE 14TH at Sacred Heart Medical Center...AUDIBLE SIGH. No private rooms....AUDIBLE SIGH. The doctor said this would be a good time to lose weight...ANOTHER, LOUDER, AUDIBLE SIGH.

PS...pictures and stories will be forthcoming re: the visits of Becca, Ashton, Ella and Piper AND Andy, Stefany and Macy.

pit in your stomach

2011-01-18T09:18:00.000-08:00

you know that moment when you suddenly realize...

you forgot something huge

and you get a pit in your stomach
and your heart stops
and you almost wet your pants
and start to cry
all at the same time.

well i had one of those moments this morning.
(i suck)

i forgot to call my sister in law on her birthday.

(i suck)

see, my sister in law isn't just any other sister in law.

she is the best sister in law EVER!

she is
beautiful
fun
crafty
smart
hot
kind
caring
funny
an amazing mother
the list could go on and on...and on.

(i suck)

i feel ill.
because i love her being my sister. i love that she fits into our family so well. i love the way she loves my brother.(i suck) i love that she has dark hair and blue eyes. i love that she gave us macy. i love that she plays crazy games with my family. (i suck) i love that she is always cold. i love that she is my friend and listens to me complain about my life. (i suck)

I will be spending the rest of the year making up for my suckiness.
(now is the time to ask for a really expensive gift....because you'll for sure get it)

Happy Birthday Stefany

may all your wildest dreams come true!

(i suck)

Happy Birthday GeGe!!!

2011-01-05T17:01:00.001-08:00

Happy Birthday to the best GeGe, Mother, and Mother-in-Law. Here is a poem written in her honor:

D is for delightful
E is for ever-giving
N is for nifty
I is for imaginative
S is for spiritual
E is for everyone's favorite GeGe

Birthdays

2010-12-27T18:20:00.000-08:00

Alright siblings--

here is the birthday list for this year:

Rachel buys for Andy

Andy buys for Ashton

Stefany buys for Sarah

Sarah buys for Becca

Becca buys for Rachel

Ashton buys for Stefany

OUR UTAH THANKSGIVING

2010-12-12T12:28:00.000-08:00

We went to Utah for Thanksgiving...the roads were dicey and at times a little scarey but we were safe. We stayed with our good friends, Curt and Marianne Lybbert along with their son, Tristan. Thanksgiving day was great and we had such a good time. Then over the next few days we shopped, ate and even toured Temple Square. As you can see we had a great time...we did miss Becca, Ashton, Ella and Piper!!!

Piper's Blessing Pics

2010-11-11T12:59:00.001-08:00

Happy Birthday Becca!!!!

2010-11-05T11:12:00.000-07:00

Andy and I have written a poem for Becca in honor of her birthday today! We hope she likes it!

B is for bodacious

E is for energetic

C is for caring

C is for cool

A is for Andy's sister

Christmas List

2010-11-03T10:54:00.000-07:00

I wanted it to be fair so we let Macy pick who buys for who.

Rachel buys for Piper
Stefany buys for Piper
Becca buys for Macy
Ashton buys for Macy
Andy buys for Ella
Sarah buys for Ella

Wait. That does not look right, I guess we will have to draw names, Macy cannot be trusted.

Rachel buys for Stefany
Andy buys for Becca
Stefany buys for Ashton
Sarah buys for Rachel
Becca buys for Sarah
Ashton buys for Andy

I know that some of these are repeats from birthday, but we used pink paper so we cannot change it.

Merry Christmas

Christmas

2010-11-01T19:01:00.001-07:00

I hope no one minds but as it's November, I decided to draw for Christmas.

Dad buys for Stefany

Mom buys for Sarah

Rachel buys for Dad

Andy buys for Mom

Stefany buys for Becca

Sarah buys for Ashton

Becca buys for Andy

Ashton buys for Rachel

MY SAN ANTONIO VISIT...OR HOW I FELL IN LOVE WITH ANOTHER GRANDAUGHTER!!!

2010-10-27T17:00:00.000-07:00

One day we visited the Alamo...I loved it. Learned so much and want to go again.

Here we all are. I even got to meet some Texas Rangers...not one of them looked like Walker...a disappointment I must say but they said things like "Maam" "Little Darlin" and stuff like that. Then we saw the River Walk...that is beautiful...we did not walk it as Becca and I were not up for it.
We ate at fun places...the most special being George Strait's Scenic Loop Cafe...I took about 5 lbs of the free mints...to remember the night.

We visited a little town, Bandera and had ice cream and enjoyed the beautiful scenery.

Most of all I spent a lot of time with these people and got to know little Piper and played a lot with Ella. I love my familyand had a wonderful time. Thanks Ashton and Becca for the wonderful time. Thanks Ella and Piper for letting me be a part of your lives and Thanks Den for letting me go...next time we go together.

Favorite Halloween Candy

2010-10-17T14:17:00.000-07:00

As Halloween nears I thought it would be fun to name our Top 5 Favorite Halloween Candies.

Happy Birthday Ashton!!!

2010-10-05T19:52:00.001-07:00

A Very Happy Birthday To A Really Great Guy!!!!

In honor of your birthday, we would like to present you with a poem that we wrote:

A is for Awesome

S is for Strapping

H is for He-Man-Like Qualities

T is for Talented

O is for Origami in Human Form

N is for Nimble

Hope you had a great day! We wish we could have been there to share it with you!

WHY I LOVE MY DAUGHTERS AND THAT INCLUDE STEFANY MY DIL

2010-08-26T13:10:00.000-07:00

This past week we had all of the girls in our family get together...what a great time was had by all in attendance!!! We ate lots...lasagne,ice cream,banana bread, chips, peanut butter M&Ms, soups, salads, bread and on and on. We got pedicures, we ate lunch where the RED HAT SOCIETY ladies were eating, we gloriously munched down at Cold Stone, we played with Ella and Macy...we visited with friends, we sewed, Stefany wowed us with her Cricut abilities, we laughed, played games and just had a great time. My daughters are my favorite people in the whole world. They let me be me...they laugh at me but really with me. They seem to understand my weird little hang ups...if they don't understand them they at least do not judge me harshly. They each love Heavenly Father and have very deep spiritual roots. They love Denny as much as he deserves to be loved and then we all laugh at/with him. I am the happiest of all when I am with my family...they are my joy and my treasures. I am very blessed.

The Magnificent 7

2010-08-20T16:26:00.000-07:00

The girls in the family all visited us in August. Here are a few pics...

Macy Isabela Hendrickson's Blessing

2010-06-27T23:01:00.000-07:00

Outside of House lookin' better

2010-06-20T19:23:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday!

2010-06-13T16:20:00.000-07:00

Happy

Birthday

Papa!

Love,

Macy

San Antonio

2010-05-24T11:01:00.000-07:00

I forgot to show Dad these pics from when he was helping us move. We had a little bit of time to site see and we saw the Alamo and the River walk.

P.S. We literally could not have done that move with out Dad! It was one of the kindest things anyone has done for us. To quote Ashton...

"Denny is amazing, the more sucky things get (like moving in 95 degree weather) the more happy he gets."

OUR NEW DECK!!!

2010-05-16T07:45:00.003-07:00

The deck has been a mess for awhile...as you know. SOOOOO.....Denny began replacing bad boards, built steps (yes, he did) and built a new corner....THEN...Rachel came in Wednesday night and worked like a dog all day Thursday, Friday and then she and Den finished Saturday. And here are the pictures of the wonderful new deck....my curtains are open to the deck (I am no longer hiding the deck) and it is beautiful. My portion of the work...I had Rachel buy red spray paint and then told Denny to paint the old UGLY plastic chairs and they are adorable...shabby chic. Why don't we have pictures of Rachel and Denny working on the deck,you ask....I DO NOT KNOW WHERE MY HEAD WAS!!! But here are pictures of our deck now...Rachel has gone home (audible sigh) and We thank her publicly, lovingly and gratefully.

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY TO THE LOVE OF MY LIFE!!!

2010-05-07T07:44:00.000-07:00

Thanks for 33 wonderful years...I love you.

Happy, Happy Birthday Rachel, Dear!

2010-04-27T10:09:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday to Rachel!!!!

I just have to share one of my first memories of Rachel. I was sitting by myself at church (I think I was pretty new to the ward) and Rachel came and sat by me. She was so friendly and happy and truly made me feel welcome! Thank you, Rachel!

More great things about Rachel:

1. She is super smart! She knows so much about so many things . . . especially movies and sports.

2. She is beautiful and is always dressed so cute!

3. She is very spiritual and is so strong in the Gospel, something that I really admire.

4. She is very organized. I wish I could be just like her!

5. She is so much fun to be around! She is always positive and happy and outgoing!

Happy Birthday!!!!!

Happy Birthday Sarah!!!

2010-04-12T08:43:00.000-07:00

I want to wish a VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY to a fabulous daughter, sister, and aunt!!!

Five Fabulous Things About Sarah (in no particular order)

1. Her Laugh

2. Her Fashion Sense

3. Her Craftiness/Cake Decorating Talent

4. Her Beauty

5. Her Sweet Spirit

Small Pleasures

2010-03-24T11:32:00.000-07:00

I'm so sorry to bump the "Michael" discussion, but I saw this really great article listing 101 Small Pleasures. I thought it was such a great idea and a good way to be grateful for the small, simple things. Please list whatever you feel is a small pleasure. Maybe we can try to get to 101.

Some of mine are:
1) Having my electric blanket "preheated" so when I climb in to bed I am all warm and "coasty".
2) The warm, sweet smell of shampoo and soap that fills the apartment after a shower.
3) Hearing a great song that you had forgotten about.

SO THERE WAS SOME CONFUSION!!!

2010-03-23T08:17:00.000-07:00

Den and I were reading the New Testamont about Paul and I made the comment that "whenever I think about Paul I think of the singer...Michael...you know..." and Den said, "Micheal Buble'?" After I stopped laughing and snorting and laughing some more I told him, "No, Michael Ballam." He had never seen him as Paul...now he knows.

What are the best places on the planet to spend a two-week vacation?

2010-03-17T20:06:00.000-07:00

I had to come up with something to replace Denise's Colin Firth posting.

HE IS STILL MY FAVORITE JANE AUSTEN MAN

2010-03-02T09:22:00.000-08:00

I have been watching lots of Jane Austen lately...all the BBC mini series...thanks to dad who DVRs all of them...and I must say that this man is the best!!! Does he not simply scream... Pride AND Predjuidice? And I do mean Colin Firth!!!

I AM NOT OBSESSED...YET...MORE TO COME.

2010-02-26T14:07:00.000-08:00

THANKS TO MY HUSBAND...

2010-02-19T12:45:00.001-08:00

He, not me, gets up earlier each day so he can start my car before work and even scrapes my windows. I am VERY spoiled.

Time with the Fam...

2010-02-18T19:08:00.001-08:00

Well, we had a fabulous time..., played with Ella (driving to McDonalds in her bedroom...a fun game), ate great food, spent time in the Temple, played fun games, watched the Olympics and missed Andy and Stefany. We wore goofy hats determining who was scum...Sarah's roommate, Tiffany joined in for the fun. There were even a few tears shed...as my father used to say..."Into each life a little rain must fall..." I even had to go through EXTENSIVE screening at the airport to get home...Note to self...do not wear hand lotion when trying to board a plane...the glycerin in the lotion could set off the alarms for weapons...as in Nitroglycerin....audible sigh. Den could not find me...I was in a little glass room with 2 women who were wanding me, swabbing me and patting me down...eventually I was found innocent of any wrong doing and released to my grateful husband...We had a great Time...Love you all.

JUST ANOTHER DAY IN PARADISE.

2010-02-03T09:00:00.000-08:00

So last night Dad and I were leaving at the same time and it was dark outside...however, I backed out of the drive-way, stopped, rolled down my window and told Dad that I needed more break fluid in my car. He waved at me so I thought "he knows what I am saying"...(I think that his window is down so can talk to me), he drives over by me so I think he wants to talk to me and then he gets really close to me so I think he is going to put it in right now, but instead as he gets closer to me he goes in a complete circle and drove off...as I was talking out the window to him...apparently, he could not see me talking to him and he thought I was waiting for him to leave first because I am so lovey...needless to say I laughed all the way to my meeting thinking about what we must have looked like to the neighbors...me just chatting away to dad and him completely oblivious to my situation....aren't you glad somethings never change?

HAPPY BIRTHDAY STEFANY

2010-01-15T16:11:00.000-08:00

Well, I would like to say that I am very grateful that Stefany is my daughter in law...I could not be happier. I love her because:
A. She calls me on the phone which makes me feel good.
B. She loves my son like there is no tomorrow.
C. She is my new grand daughter's mother.
D. She has seen me fall down twice and did not laugh once although I think she had good reason to...once in the WalMart parking lot and once in the Bahamas...not graceful either time.
E. She lets me be a hypochondriac around her and again does not laugh...she really listens to me as I tell her my symptoms.
F. She was a very good hostess in NYC.
G. She is just very easy to love and she is very beautiful.

So as you can see, I am very happy she is in our family and I wish her a HAPPY Birthday!!!

Love you Stefany!!!

Happy Birthday to a Great Wife, Mom, Grandma, and Old Ball's Chain

2010-01-05T15:49:00.001-08:00

Did you know that Ella and I have known GeGe about the same amount of time? It hasn't been long, but in the last two and a half years I have found that she is one of the most fabulous people you could ever meet. Here are some of my favorite things about Denise on what I hope is her best birthday yet!!! Feel free to add your favorites as well!!!!

1) She is the exact opposite of the stereotypical Mother-in-Law!

2) She always has great advice.

3) She is tons of fun to talk to and hang out with.

4) She would do anything for her family and is a great wife, mother, GeGe, and mother-in-law.

5) She has a very strong testimony of the Gospel.

6) She is always cooking tasty treats!

7) She is so giving. She is always giving of her time and resources for the Church, but also loves to give fun gifts and treats for holidays and other special occasions.

8) She always has great socks.

9) She is very fashionable!

10) She knows a lot of great trivia.

Happy Birthday to Denise!!!!

FAVORITE CHRISTMAS MOVIES...

2009-12-10T08:53:00.000-08:00

What makes you laugh, cry and want to keep Christmas in your heart all year long?

THANKSGIVING 2009

2009-12-08T19:18:00.000-08:00

We spent Thanksgiving in Utah with our daughters, son in law and granddaughter. We stayed with our GREAT friends, Curt and Marianne Lybbert. We spent Thanksgiving at their house eating fabulous food, playings games, laughing,snorting and just generally enjoying ourselves. The next we shopped, ate, saw TWILIGHT and played more games. The next day we shopped, had a great dinner at Rachel's, watched the BYU game (yeah!!!) and then headed to Temple Square to see the lights. It was so beautiful...very cold...but just amazing...we went back to Rachel's played games and ate and slept and the next day headed back to Spokane...on dry roads. All in all a wonderful time was had by all in attendance. We GREATLY missed Andy and Stefany!!!

Saturday Night Live

2009-11-22T13:46:00.000-08:00

Alright, family. Favorite sketches on Saturday Night Live. I know most of have them. Including you, Ashton.

Favorite Lines from Movies

2009-11-12T23:22:00.000-08:00

OK....we need a new survey. How about top 5 (or so) lines from movies? For example, "You want the truth? You can't handle the truth"

happy birthday becca

2009-11-05T11:46:00.000-08:00

so normally becca does the birthday blog posts
but since its her birthday
and she's in Atlanta
i thought i'd give her a shout out!! happy birthday rebecca grace
you are a
wonderful daughter,
a fabulous sister/sister inlaw,
a loving wife,
an amazing mother,
and an loyal friend to us all!
i think we'd all agree that our lives
are better because of you,
your sense of humor,
and your awesomeness!!
have a fabulous birthday!
we love you!!!

Christmas List

2009-10-18T13:00:00.000-07:00

Alright, since everyone agreed I drew names for Christmas. . .

Dad buys for Andy
Mom buys for Becca
Rachel buys for Mom
Andy buys for Ashton
Sarah buys for Stefany
Becca buys for Rachel
Ashton buys for Sarah
Stefany buys for Dad

Happy Shopping!

Favorite Lyrics from Hymns

2009-10-17T09:49:00.000-07:00

I thought it would be fun to note our favorite lyrics or phrases or lines from Hymns

2009-10-13T12:40:00.000-07:00

i thought mom's story was so cute, and i really appreciate her showing her thanks. i also think its awesome that dad caught it on camera. its a really special moment and i'm glad she could share it. i had a few free minutes at work so i had some fun with photoshop and this is what i came up with. enjoy!!

Christmas

2009-10-12T19:51:00.000-07:00

So, Mary drew names for her family to figure out who's buying for who for Christmas. This got me to thinking about us. I believe that we decided we want to do Christmas like last year with the name drawing. . . should the drawing (and SHOPPING!) begin?

JUST A SINCERE THANKS

2009-10-11T11:08:00.000-07:00

This is the picture of me thanking a WWII vet (who sat in a wheelchair) for his service during the war. He cried, I cried and his family cried. Dad caught this on film...although not the best picture...the best of intentions.

A quick overview of our trip to Washington DC and New York.

2009-10-08T17:29:00.000-07:00

President Monson--Filling in the Infrastructure

2009-09-20T20:13:00.000-07:00

Elder Perry, our Area Seventy, after a meeting yesterday said this about President Monson that I thought was profound. He said that many members didn't know quite what to make of President Monson's messages as a prophet. He is so different from President Hinckly. Elder Perry said that each prophet has special assignments from the Savior. One of President Hinckley's assignments was to building the infrastructure of the Church (temples, the Seventy, etc). President Monson has different assignments. One of his is to fill in the infrastructure, to teach us how to use the structure that we have by being kind, rescuing others, etc. We probably won't see a lot of structural changes or instruction from Pres Monson. Rather he will spend his time teaching us how to help others through the structure.

Favorites Lines from Songs

2009-09-06T09:22:00.000-07:00

For our next survey, how about if we list out favorite lines from songs ( funny, meaningful or just well written). Perhaps top 5 or so.

HOME CANNNG FOR IDIOTS

2009-09-04T09:40:00.000-07:00

So my cute little desk mate (Telana) says that I am the "Walking Version" of Home Canning for Idiots...apparently a new book that is out...so just make sure you remember this when addresssing me that you can include this in my title. I took it as a compliment. I LOVE canning!!!

MY HEART IS BREAKING...

2009-08-28T14:40:00.000-07:00

Just a quick little note of how sad I am Becca, Ashton and Ella are heading back to Utah...I know it is time for them to go but as I write this tears are running down my cheeks. I know, I know, Buck up little soldier!!!

New Contest

2009-08-22T17:19:00.000-07:00

OK...here is the contest...the rules are that
1. you can't look anything up on the Internet or anywhere else. This has to be from memory
2. You give yourself one minute.

The task....type in as many of the words to the song "Ice Ice Baby" that you can...ready go!

can you believe this?

2009-08-18T19:47:00.001-07:00

this is what my kitchen looked like 1 month ago....

and this is what my kitchen looked like 3 weeks ago.

and this is what it looks like now.

Well, my refrigerator is an LG...which made me think...Well..."Large"...and that led to her name..."Large Marge". I love Marge. She beeps if the door is open to long. She makes fabulous ice and has lots of room...she is large and wonderful. The granite sink is named "Seymore"...I love him...although, if things hit the bottom hard they break...I enjoy him very much and it is almost fun doing dishes. I do love my kitchen...it is still a "one butt kitchen" but it is MY kitchen and I love it. (by the way, I am still getting a new laundry room door.)

Uncanceled

2009-08-13T16:57:00.000-07:00

Everyone has those shows that they loved watching and were very sad/mad when they were canceled. Please list the 5 shows that you would bring back.

Ford

2009-08-02T19:35:00.001-07:00

So The Fugitive was on t.v., and it got me to thinking of my favorite Harrison Ford movies. There are some pretty decent options. I've come up with my top 5.

1. Empire Strikes Back (My favorite Star Wars)
2. Raiders of the Lost Ark (lately I've picked Raiders over Last Crusade, but it could easily go either way)
3. The Fugitive
4. Witness (it's on t.v. edited quite a bit, and I recommend it)
5. Working Girl (also on t.v. edited, and I think it's funny 80s movie, and different than your typical Harrison Ford one)

Thoughts?

I CAN CONTRIBUTE!!!

2009-08-02T08:39:00.000-07:00

Yeah, no long will I sit on the sidelines of the family blog and just sigh with sadness that i was not a contributer. Thanks Sarah Jean for making this possible....thanks to everyone for this honor. I do not take it lightly and will add many great and important things...pictures of the NEW and improved kitchen are forth coming.

People That We Know That Look Like Famous People

2009-07-29T19:59:00.001-07:00

For our next survey, how about "People we know who look like famous people" (Compliments only)

Happy Birthday ANDREW DENIS !!!

2009-07-17T11:10:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday for my favorite son...he is a wonderful young man, he was a fun and funny teenager, a sweet little boy and a loveable and loving baby.

(I am posting as Sarah because I cannot post as me on the blog...someone please add gegehendrickson to the Blog...thanks, momo)

Andy, you make me laugh, you teach me wonderful and important things, you teach me about the Gospel...I love you very much!!! Andy, you are also a wonderful brother, son and husband as well as a terrific Uncle.

love,

the old balls chain

Favorite quirky, fun, interesting, sometimes insightful sayings or phrases

2009-07-12T10:34:00.000-07:00

I thought it would be fun to hear some of our favorite quirky, fun, interesting, sometimes insightful sayings or phrases. For example, "If a girl wants a yellow dog, she will get a yellow dog". (We got that from Mary McCain.) or "When someone offers you a breathmint, always take it."

Top Five Moments in Sports

2009-07-01T20:47:00.000-07:00

For our next survey I thought it would be fun to see our top five moments in sports. Note this is not necessarily the "greatest" moments, just your favorites.

Spread My Wings and Fly

2009-06-14T18:06:00.000-07:00

Well, the day has come. I am the oldest and thus far only Hendrickson child to not have my own blog. I actually have had people ask me if I would start one and have always said no. At some point in writing on the family blog I realized that I actually like blogging. So, I'm going to spread my wings and fly. That's right, today I started my own blog. I post this to 1) get everyone excited and 2) as a means of apology if my e-mail didn't make it to you or if I didn't have your address. (I'm gone private with my blog for work reasons, so the only way to access it is by an e-mail giving the okay.. . I can e-mail you if you want access, and let's be honest, who wouldn't.) :)
What do they say in blog world. .. happy blogging?!

Happy Birthday Paps!

2009-06-11T20:13:00.000-07:00

Yes, I know that I'm a few days early, but I won't have access of a computer on the day of Paps' Birthday. I'd like to give a shout out to a few of my favorite things about him:

His willingness to do the crazy things that we suggest, like having a spitting contest ala Titanic off the desk of the cruise ship (see the above picture)
Dedication in his calling

Scheduling/Planning--I only now truly appreciate "planning for the week" during Family Home Evening growing up

"Mr. Wizard"

Willing to help/drive whenever, where ever (and the ability to sound like he's never been asleep even though he has been)

Basketball skills, which he still has even now

All of the sacrifices he makes for the family

Little kids love Dad. They all do.
The amazing Drumming Skills
Three words: Denny Hendrickson Toast

Love you Paps!!! Happy Birthday.

Five Favorite Books (not counting scriptures)

2009-06-08T21:19:00.000-07:00

I thought this would be fun for our next opinion poll. Denise will have trouble limiting herself to five. I have trouble thinking of five, but here they are:

1. Les Miserables (Victor Hugo)
2. A Tale of Two Cities (Charles Dickens)
3. Miss Nelson is Missing (???)
4. Joseph Smith, Rough Stone Rolling
5. Fire in the Bones (biography of William Tindale)

In Search of the Obamas

2009-06-04T10:40:00.000-07:00

So I returned from DC (yes, after the 4 1/2 hours spent in the plane on the runway waiting for the weather to clear, and then the 4 1/2 hours spent in the air actually flying). I had a fabulous time but took very few pics. . . I was the only one who brought a camera and it just wan't a picture-taking trip.

Though we weren't big into pictures, we were big into seeing the Obamas.

We stayed close to the White House, so we walked by it I don't know how many times and learned all kinds of things from the random secret service people everywhere. (Mom, we did see the garden that Michelle Obama started, which I thought you would appreciate.)

Any time there were sirens, we all watched to see if it was for them. And this actually paid off. We saw the President's motorcade once (the sniper in all black in the White House trees confirmed that it was him). The next day we saw Michelle's motorcade and I saw her head in the car, so I was able to confirm it on my own.

I had dinner with Rustin while I was there, and we decided to go to Ray's Hell Burgers (the place the Pres. went to eat a few weeks ago). Knew we wouldn't see him there, but at least enjoyed eating where he ate. It's a very hole-in-the-wall place, really good food.

We tried to get tickets to tour the White House, but those are actually hard to come by. My friend with us has a friend in the Secret Service who was helping to get tickets, then it went all crazy, but in the end the nice Secret Service agent there let us tour!

So all in all it was a great trip. We didn't actually find the First Family, but I think we got pretty close :).

5 Favorite Romantic Songs

2009-05-24T17:24:00.001-07:00

I am creating this for Mom. This is your 5 favorite romantic songs

Closet TV Shows

2009-05-12T19:57:00.001-07:00

So as the tv season comes to a close, I feel the need to comment on tv shows that I like. My favorite show on tv right now is Lost. Pure joy. I also like 30 Rock, Friday Night Lights, and The Office. Those are the shows that I watch.
I then have a few shows that I like but don't necessarily shout it out. . . closet tv shows, if you will. I'm not embarrased to say that I watch them per se, but keep it a little more on the down low.
For example, I love Dancing with the Stars. I mocked it when it first came on, and now I watch it each week. I have dances that I really like to watch (for example, the quick step) and pro dancers whose choreography I like (Derek Hough) and don't like (Edyta).
I also like Celebrity Apprentice. Mary and I watched it each week. I'm now a Jesse James fan, and just really enjoyed watching it. And I'm going to be watching Tori and Dean when it starts up again.
Lastly, not a tv show but close enough: I love a good ABC family movie. Most recently it was the Joey Lawrence-Melissa Joan Hart one. Loved it!
Any closet tv shows that people watch?

mama

2009-05-11T09:11:00.000-07:00

so yesterday was mother's day and sadly i was unable to be with my mama on this special day. so instead i went to church, took a nap and watched several lifetime movies about mothers. believe it or not we even watched the movie.... Mother may I sleep with Danger? tori spelling played the roll of the daughter in love with a stalker, it was riveting! and as i'm sure you can imagine... the acting was superb!! anyway i thought i'd give a little shout out to the lady i admire most in life, and who has given me everything!!

Top Ten Reasons Why i LOVE my MAMA

10. every time you call she gives you a play by play on she and my dad's day/week
9. she's the best to call when you've had a bad day
8. she is an amazing cook (i want to eat her banana bread right this very moment)
7. she and i could sit and watch TLC all day long!!
6. when she goes to the store she always comes back with special treats for everyone
5. she's very spiritual
4. she loves holidays and insists she celebrates the harvest.... i'm pretty sure she doesn't
3. she snorts when you really get her laughing
2.she loves my dad
1. i can't think of a more selfless and loving person (besides my dad). she is constantly giving to her family and never asks for anything in return.

thanks for everything you do.... love ya mom!!

5 Favorite Musicals

2009-05-06T10:47:00.000-07:00

Taking Andy's suggestion that favorite movies of all varieties is too hard, let's start with our 5 favorite musicals. "Yentyl" will not be one of mine.

Hawaii

2009-05-03T14:52:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pictures from Hawaii. Though there were 3 other girls present, most pics were of Loree and me (and Mary informed me that I would be in trouble if any pictures of her were posted, so all you get is the pictures of me and Ree). We had a fabulous time beach hopping, eating amazing food, and getting a sun tan. (Thanks to all for the good advice from everyone of food to eat and places to be!)

5 Least Favorite Movies

2009-04-29T10:45:00.001-07:00

I thought it would be fun to see everyone's 5 least favorite movies. I won't mention mine so as to not influence anyone toward Yentl.

Funny WSU teeshirt

2009-04-28T16:45:00.000-07:00

I thought you would appreciate the funny WSU tee-shirt that can no longer be worn now that Tony Bennett, the Basketball coach, has left.

It says, "Our coach is hotter than your coach"

Similarites---Discussion

2009-04-26T09:33:00.001-07:00

Hi! In preparation for my Stake Newsletter article in May, I would like to pose a question for discussion.

The question is, "What are the similarities between us and the Prophet Joseph Smith?"

Obviously there are a lot of differences, but I would appreciate any thoughts you might have on the similarities between us and our individual situations and Joseph Smith's situation.

I think this could be fun!

2009-04-16T08:43:00.001-07:00

dear mr weather man,

thank you so much for not warning me last week when i was trading in my suv/4 wheel drive vehicle for a family sedan (still hoping i might need one someday). i mean who would think i'd be needing a 4 wheel drive in the middle of april? not i. but as luck would have it mr weatherman (aka tom sherry), it in fact did snow several inches on my new ride. its fine, no dont worry about it. i mean i love waking up early on a beautiful spring morning, walking down to my snow piled car and pretending my arms are giant wind shield wipers and pretty much snow plowing that white garbage right onto the ground. apparently mr weather man you didn't get my birthday wishes.... a rich hot man, and no snow. wait now i'm afraid, was april 12th opposite day??? does this mean if i get a man he'll be poor and ugly???? wow good thing i didn't wish for bigger boobs, can you imagine the horror!! mr weather man if you love me at all you'll stop all this snow nonsense and bring out my 3rd best friend... the sun, so that i can roll down my windows and sing "all the single ladies" at the top of my lungs while cruising down university looking for guys with fake tans and popped collars. if you make all my wishes come true then i promise that next winter i'll have a much better attitude and will no longer use swear words as the adjectives used to describe my feelings about snow. thank you for your time mr weatherman, i hope we can be friends again soon. please tell mr sun that i say hello, and that i've missed him dearly!!

sincerely,
president of the sun lover fan club
sarah

Girls Weekend

2009-04-05T17:50:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pictures from our weekend in St. George and Vegas. A few highlights include going on the Big Shot, eating at In-N-Out (only once, not the 3 times we talked about going), singing in the car (my last road trip with Lois), and Becca, Sarah, and Christie creating a path for the mouse that we discovered in the house to go out of (the mouse did not choose the path, and I did not help create the path but did remain calm despite my phobia of mice!).

I am lucky to have such amazing sisters who are two of my closest friends, and had the best time!!! Mom and Stefany will have to join us for the next ones (and other Hainsworths, if they want).

Birthday Gifts

2009-04-05T17:42:00.000-07:00

Sarah, Becca, and I were discussing who is giving to who for birthdays. We weren't entirely sure, but think we maybe figured it out. The question is if we figured it out correctly or not. . .
I know for sure these 3 things.

Becca gave to Stefany for her birthday
I buy for Ashton
Stefany buys for me

I think Andy buys for Sarah
Ashton buys for Andy
Sarah buys for Becca

Correct or incorrect??

Living One of my Dreams

2009-03-31T20:09:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures of me living one of my dreams: seeing the Knicks play very close up. (Special thanks to Kiersten and her father for the amazing tickets).

celebrity crushes

2009-03-24T08:28:00.001-07:00

so i was having a discussion with a guy at work about celebrity crushes. he was sure that all girls would put brad pitt on the top of their list. now dont get me wrong brad is totally totally hot but he's not my fav. so i decided to make a list of my top 5 celebrity crushes.... what are yours??

1. Ben Affleck
2. Will Smith
3. Nick Lachey
4. Bobby Flay
5 Taylor Kitsch ( hey plays Tim Riggens on Friday Night Lights)

* i know my crushes are weird, but what can i say these are the guys that make my heart go pitter patter!! they aren't necessarily the hottest but they seem like they'd be pretty fun to hang out with!!!

More Pics

2009-03-19T23:10:00.000-07:00

A Few of My Favorite Pics from the Cruise

2009-03-19T18:20:00.000-07:00

Bahamas Trip

2009-03-19T13:59:00.001-07:00

Incredibly wonderful vacation! More pics to come!

Cruise Schedule

2009-03-10T14:52:00.000-07:00

Do you remember when I used to bug everyone with planning at Family Home Evening. Well here we go again:

1. 3/11 Denny/Denise leave Spokane via Delta flight 1124 at 1:15 PM, arrive in Ft Laud @ 1130 PM

2. Rentacar at Enterprise ---stay at Sheraton

3. 3/12 Ashton, Becca Ella Rachel and Sarah leave via SW and arrive at 910AM. Dad picks up

4. Have fun and shop for snorkel gear, soda and dog bisquits in Ft Laud

5. 3/13 Andy & Steffany arrive at 12:40 AM (i e 40 min after midnight) via Jet Blue. dad picks up. All stay at Shearton

6. 3/13 Go to Port of Miami at Noon and drop off everyone for boarding. Dad drops the car off and takes a taxi back to the port to board no later than 3 PM.

7. Ship leaves at 5 PM

8. 3/14 Arrive in Nassau at 8 am

9. Swin with the Dolphins for Denise Rachel Sarah and Becca from 10 am to 2 pm. Sight see and Snorkel also

10. Depart 6 PM

11. Arrive at Great Stirrup Kay at 8 am

12. Depart 5 pm

13. 1/16Arri ve in Miami at 7 am

14. Dad & someone takes taxi to Rental Car and we rent 2 cars

15. Back to the Shertaon and have fun in Ft Lauderdale

16. 3/17 Aston Becca Ella Rach Sarah leave at 6:35 am

17. Andy and Stefany leave at 9:45

18. Denny & Denise leave at 11:50 am

10.

Weather for the Cruise

2009-03-09T15:40:00.001-07:00

I checked the weather for the Bahamas and Ft Lauderdale for the next few days.

It runs in the highs of 75-78 degress and lows of 65-67 degrees in the Bahamas, and 77-82 for a high and 62-67 for a low in Ft Lauderdale.

Both show partly cloudy with 0-10% chance of percipitation.

Pretty nice weather.....especially since it is currently snowing like crazy in Spokane!

Debbie Downer

2009-03-04T19:04:00.000-08:00

I am not one to send people to different websites, but I was finally able to locate a clip of pure Saturday Night Live joy, and I feel that everyone should watch it. It's the Debbie Downer with Ben Affleck sketch, and it's pretty funny. Perhaps not as amazing as Cowbell, but pretty darn good.

http://bestongooglevideo.blogspot.com/2008/05/hilarious-debbie-downer-episode-from.html

Remember the Alamo

2009-03-03T19:08:00.000-08:00

Here are a couple of pictures from the San Antonio trip: The Alamo and the Riverwalk (Mom, I gave a shout out to Cloak and Dagger for you). We had a great time. And the 70 degree weather really just made me very excited for the cruise!!!

funny story (from Becca)

2009-03-02T11:48:00.000-08:00

Ok, I thought you all would enjoy this.......

Two Sundays ago a member of our bishopric called and left us a message that he wanted to meet with us that Sunday, we were actually already at Corrine and Gary's ward because Gary was speaking so we could not go. So yesterday (sunday) Ashton returned the call saying we could meet with him that day if needed. He said to come in at eleven. So we get in there and Bro. Wilson (i believe is his name) starts making small talk with us, he asks us if we live next door to the Johnsons or whoever and we replied no. He seemed slightly confused but kept making odd conversation that was incredibly awkward. After like 2 more uncomfortable minutes he let us go. Now, Ashton and I don't have callings in our ward. In fact no one really talks to us. We figured callings would be given that day. But no. Ashton put it together for me...... they called the wrong Rodgers family in for a calling, realized we weren't who they were looking for and tried to play it off like they just wanted a little chat. I about died laughing when i realized this. How embarrassing. What was worse was he then asked us to say the opening and closing prayers to make us feel better. OH Boy.

the secret is out!

2009-02-26T11:51:00.000-08:00

Yes this is the real reason why.... dad can stay awake at work all day, have a smile on his face, go to his church meetings, laugh at mom's crazy jokes, stay up late to watch Letterman, and do it all again the next day! Its also the reason why sometimes mom acts like she is drunk, giggles like a school girl, and burps louder then dad!!! i dont even want to know what my life would be like without the magic that is

Diet Coke!!!

Another Cruise Question

2009-02-26T07:35:00.000-08:00

When we are out and about and doing snorkeling, swimming with the dolphins, etc., what do you do with your wallet, passport, glasses, etc.? Any good ideas?

Cruise - Dog Bisquits and collared shirts

2009-02-24T11:30:00.000-08:00

Hi! The cruise is getting close!!!

We learned a little tidbit from Brent Maughan who goes on lots of cruises. He says to buy some dog bisquits when you get to Ft Lauderdale while you buy the snorkeling gear and put them in a plastic sack. Then, when you go snorkeling, you let a little bit of the dog biscuit out and fish come to you like crazy. Sometimes you need to throw some away from you to clear the area.

Also, I e-mailed some information on dinners and clothes etc. Basically, you can wear shorts and swimming suits everywhere except to dinner where they want you to wear collared shirts and pants or nice jeans for guys. Slacks or jeans, dresses skirts and tops for women.

It sounds a bit like selecting the dress standard for a youth dance, doesn't it?

There is also a dress up restaurant if you went to really dress up (ties etc). I don't know how people feel about that.

Andy said that typically on cruises the drinks cost (everything but water). The lobster might also be charged.

See you all in a couple of weeks!

Thoughts on the Oscars

2009-02-22T22:42:00.000-08:00

Well, another Academy Awards has come and gone. Kate Winslet now has a well deserved Oscar, and Hugh Jackman was fantastic as the host, so I'm happy. I also enjoyed Steve Martin and Tina Fey as presenters, as well as Ben Still as Joaquin Phoenix (who p.s., I think is faking it; that's the only explaination I have for Casey Affleck recording the whole crazy thing). Didn't love the church reference nor the previous acting winners long speeches to the acting nominees. . . .they need to return to the previous winner presenting it. Other than that, it was well done. I enjoyed the montages as well as the singing and dancing (including Anne Hathaway, who at times annoys me).

As for the outfits.. . The best dressed men: Daniel Craig and Brad Pitt.
Best dressed women: Angelina Jolie (I haven't loved any other dresses this awards season but this was good), Anne Hathaway (the red carpet dress), Taraji P. Henson, and Tina Fey. I also liked Amy Adams dress (congrats to Caroline Herrera who redeemed herself after the hideousness of Renee Zelwegger at the Golden Globes) and Nicole Kidman. I was so-so on Kate Winslet (she normally does better. . . I disliked her hair more and more as the night went on) and Penelope Cruz. I hated Beyonce's dress, and my worst dressed of the night goes to Reese Witherspoon. She is capable of so much more.

Here are some pictures of the Oscar dinner. We kept things small and mostly family this year-- the sisters, Mary and her (young) aunt Tracy, and Kiersten. Definately not the same as with the parents, but it is an attempt to carry on the tradition that Mom started.