I know him as Daddy

I have experienced many rare moments in my life but am now witnessing the most precious of gifts...the making of my father. Never in a million years would I have guessed I would have this opportunity, however, never in a trillion years would I give this away!!! What a beautiful window to look into...to open my eyes and see my father loving my brothers, his new baby sons and becoming a daddy all over again!

I grew up knowing my dad was the only person that could teach me how to enjoy music (the right music), throw a football, build a sandcastle, strum a guitar or play a perfect game of 21. I also know now that I learned how to show compassion, smile, LAUGH, feel and treat people fairly from observing his kindness and consistancy.

My dad is THE funniest person I know! I have never laughed like I do when I am with him. He is in so many ways my friend, confidant, hero and my dear, dear love. A bond between a father and daughter is unbreakable, irreplaceable and eternal. I don't go a day without feeling his love and this year, especially, I owe my life to him. He has given to me so many gifts but none as precious as his thoughts, feelings, friendship and a shoulder to cry on.

Dad, I love you more than these words can say! I celebrate you and share you with the world each and every moment I get...but today I hold you on the pedestal high above all others and say, HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!! Ti Amo!

The Little Tykes

All the new music is inspired by the little tykes! Aston and Corey seem to be growing by the minute and are so sweet and snuggly. Like my dad has said, "they are in high demand" so I don't see them as much as I'd like...but I love them more and more each day. They are the most handsome and beautiful little boys. So good to their sisters!!! Much love!

Rock STAR!!!

Happy Birthday KP da Shelly!!! Casey, Casey, Casey (shaking my head) what can I say? Even though I am the younger sister I have watched you go from sweet and innocent to complete ROCK STAR (still sweet...)!!! You are one of the people that keep my life entertaining, always movin' along and completely FUNNY!!! I love you. I love your sense of humor and all the ways you bring that out in others.

You are a very powerful woman, love. You give so much to those in your life and bring such joy to the world! You are always inventing new ways to assist others with your forward thinking and creativity. I love your authenticity and the vulnerable way you open yourself to me as your sister. I cherish our talks and consider you my dear friend.

My emotions catch me off guard at times when I allow the complete love I feel for you and Stacey to consume my soul. Thank you for sharing your love with me. Thank you for teaching me. You are beautiful and shining in this great life you live. I know I will always be able look to my side to see you standing there offering your advice and support as only a big sister can.

I love you sweetie!!!

Introducing...

My baby brothers were born today...10.9.08!!! They are beautiful...BEAUTIFUL. I was caught up in the moment so pictures will be coming shortly but I get to announce it to the world...I AM A BIG SISTER!!!! Life is amazing! God is all knowing and loving!!!!

Animal Cookies

RJ and I went to the Zoo on our anniversary. It was so much fun! We were like two little kids! One of the most fun anniversary ideas EVER…thanks RJ!!

The Penguins really inspired RJ to get in tune with his inner self. I begged him to let me buy this penguin hat...NEG...cute picture though. He got a little "Hogle Zoo" hat instead.

I kept telling him that this wasn't a real lion but did give him an animal cookie for risking life and limb for this picture. Those teeth are pretty sharp and what if the water turned on...that could take your eye out!!!

When we walked in the gates the first thing we saw was the Train...we both turned to each other and said "let's ride the train." It was hillarious!!! This train is made for little people...like little kids...we were scrunched next to each other and lovin every minute of it. I couln't have been happier!
This elephant is too awesome! It was showing all these tricks and playing...yes, that's right...SOCCER!!! At first I felt bad that they had to put on a show for us...but then I was ready to throw money!!! So talented and I love elephants anyway because they mate for life...like me!!! (this is the ONLY time you are allowed to think of me in elephant terms :) )

My absolute favorite...the carosel!!! This was my favorite "ride" as a child. I even believe my parents would put me on this and tell the ticket taker to let me go around for an hour or two...I would have been completly content!!! RJ stood close just to make sure I didn't fall off...

These are some of the other animals. Seriously, this was a FUN day!!!

RJ's magestic pose with a Rhino statue...

I finally found a statue of "Thunder Cat" from He-Man..."I have the POWER!!!"

What a great time! We are goof balls and this was the perfect place for us to celebrate that! I had such a good time and we were laughing the entire time. I just felt like sharing our dorky moments and knew you would enjoy this as much as we did!!!

Love you MUCH

From the moment I joined my family I have been a sister but I have always been the little sister, the one everyone attempts to protect from the lessons in life, the one that will always be symbolically hoisted above the flooding waters and kept dry (or so you “think”). How wonderful is this feeling? How great is it to delight in the core defininition of words like family, love, compassion and sisterhood? IT IS ASTOUNDING!!! IT IS BREATHTAKING!!! IT IS TRULY BEAUTIFUL!!!

I love my family beyond measure! My sisters and I, as separate and unique as we are, share the same heartbeat and the same devotion to each other. I live in a space of gratitude and appreciation for this gift but believe it or not…I now face the most humbling and divine experience of my life.




My little brothers, bless their sweet souls, have NO IDEA what they are getting into…unless they do!!! They are entering a family that is mostly crazy but completely unique!!! They are completing a family that is rare in its compassion and way too close with its disclosure. My dad can confirm this…three very loud and open daughters will teach you this quickly!

It humors me to feel that it’s taken me this long to figure it out. I have “titles” that are offered by the levels of life that open themselves to me. I have accomplishments and I have successes that could carry me all my days but I have yet to fully experience the one that has impacted my life so intimately…that of sister…big sister!

Time has allowed me the chance to let this change permeate the layers of my life and I am EXCITED!!! I know I really have no idea what to expect or how to really feel. However, I do feel love and a tangible connection with these spirits that I know are “old souls.” I know what they have already taught me and I marvel at the possibilities of what they will continue to unveil.

I know that I will absolutely lay my life down for them. I know I will be the best example I can be to them. I know I will be the crazy, wacked out sister that only I can be for them. With a little help from the other “sisters,” and by this I do NOT mean nuns, these little boys are going to be the most spoiled, most carried, most sporty and most LOVED little brothers in the world. So to my dad and Amy I say…“Now therefore fear ye not: I will nourish you, and your little ones (Gen 50:21).”

Love you MUCH!!!

Only The Beginning

RJ and I celebrated our tenth wedding anniversary on August 28th. I can happily and honestly say, this is only the beginning. We have grown up together in so many ways and it's hard at times for me to tell where we are two in the fabric of one. My life memories are scattered with the laughter, the smile and the love of the most amazing person. If you are fortunate enough to know RJ, you know these qualities. His laugh is infectious. His smile is unforgettable and his love is perfect!

RJ and I have been through lessons that have challenged us, brought us closer together than most people would ever "hope" to be and yet today I feel closer to him that I did yesterday. I have known RJ for over half my life. I have had daily contact (for the most part) with him for the last 16 years and I ache and desire to be near him, to learn of him, to feel him and to continue to know him.

It is my blessing to be "married to my best friend!" I have the opportunity to stay up all night and giggle about the most obsurd situations with him...to hold his hand through tragedy...to see him succeed with honor...to hold him close when we dance...and to begin our life together. I am grateful!

RJ, I am in love with you! Ti Amo!!!

With love!!!

There are many angels in my life but none as sweet as my sisters! Today is Stacey's birthday and this post is only for you Pengy!!!

I LOVE YOU!!! I honestly know where I am with you...in absolute heavenly bliss! You are so beautiful. I have many special memories with you and have glimpsed the paths of divinity in your eyes. Those mermaid eyes that change with the tides of the world. You have a great strength Stace!!! You have a piece of my heart that I willingly give to you and trust in your safe keeping. You are the protective big sister...always carfully clearing the space beneath my next step. What you should know is that I gratefully kneel to assist you in yours. You have wings to soar above all others in life and the knowing to compassionately lift them higher than they ever thought possible. I will forever sing your praises love!!!!!!

Happy Birthday!!!

Amy and All She Is

Amy, thank you...

for accepting our family with arms open
for joining our family with authenticity
for loving my father
for loving my sisters
for creating my baby brothers
for your beauty
for being my friend
for loving and caring for my grandmother
for loving the cows at the farm :)
for showing me the color in life
for the talks in the pool
for including me
for your service to the WORLD
for cleaning all my dishes when I moved
for all your thoughtfulness

I love you!!! Happy Birthday!

Hi...it's been a while

I'm having the best time listening to myself lately. I know...it does sound a little crazy and maybe just a little bit selfish, but it is SOOOO interesting!!!! I feel like i'm discovering a new depth of the ocean where light hasn't ever been introduced.

I've always described my mind and thoughts as "corners"..."the corners of my mind"...but i'm finally learning that my feelings, actually, are endless. I don't experience the SAME emotion...it's new each time. Experiences are never the same and I can never remind myself of places i've been and expect my footsteps to be placed in the same sand. I am learning to love life, to love the refreshing breeze that pushes the water up and over my pathway to create a new canvas. I am finally taking my time in building my sand castle and celebrating in the security that they don't get destroyed or washed away...they blend back into the universe and become an integral part of my new creation.

I know, it's all a little wordy and those of you who know me best will get that this is just who I AM!!! Some say it's my mind working overtime or that I'm always thinking. I'm just going to start introducing myself...to MYSELF...so, "Hi!" I will continue to love each and every minute I am given and please know that I will always continue to love YOU!!!!!

Honor Peace Day Utah

Check out this website...

http://web.me.com/dmvest/TALA/Honor_Peace_Day.html

TALA International creates Honor Peace Day©

Honor Peace Coalition – Community Leaders (registration required)
1:00 - 6:00 PM Session includes dinner – Hosted by West Valley City.

EDUCATION
•Current Reality - What to expect if we don’t come together.
•Community resources – What is working? What is not working?
•Authentic Leadership – Leaders in today’s reality – How to Mobilize Communities

ACTION
•Community Outreach Programs
•Round Table Discussion
•Small Group Creative Brainstorm Sessions – How to move forward
•Commitment to action moving forward

Evening Community Celebration: 7:00 – 9:00 PM (no registration required)
•All members of the community invited including:
-All who take a stand against youth & gang violence
-All who want safe neighborhoods
-All who commit to ending the cycle of violence
•Cultural Celebrations & Entertainment
•Candlelight Vigil

When:
August 20, 2008
Honor Peace Coalition Session – 1:00 to 6:00 PM; Registration at NOON
Community Celebration – 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Where:
Utah Cultural Celebration Center
1355 West 3100 South
West Valley, City 84119

For more information contact:
Juanita Corum: 206-250-7238 or 801-944-3425
Clark Cutler: 801-580-3635

Current Partners:
The Authentic Leadership Alliance International, Celerity, AnnaGhela Consulting, West Valley City – Police Department, Neighborhood Service Center, West Valley Cultural Celebration Center, Cutler Consulting, Jensen Consulting, Latino Community Center – Information & Education, Relevant Communications Consulting, TW Sipe Consulting, Project 180, The Jay Williams Group – New York City

Memories

I copied this from my friends blog.

Please post a memory you have about me.

1. Add a comment on my blog, leave one memory that you and I have had together. It doesn't matter if you knew me a little or a lot, anything you remember!

2. Next, re-post these instructions on your blog and see how many people leave a memory about you. If you leave a memory about me, I'll assume you're playing the game and I'll come to your blog and leave one about you. If you don't want to play on your blog, or if you don't have a blog, I'll leave my memory of you in my comments.

Taurus

My Homemade Zodiac

(I took out all the "you are" statements and replaced them with "I am" statements)

I am a bull, I am calm and gentle when everything is going good, however when provoked, I can easily become angry, and even difficult to please. Generally I like to take it easy and take my time. I am very patient. I am constructive, but not original. I follow the paths that others have made. I like things that are reliable and safe. I am stubborn. My sensitivity gives me the desire to comfort and ease others. My self-reliance and persistence gives me the ability to patiently wait for my goals to come together. I am possessive, affectionate, and sensual.

I am a pet and nature lover.

I am hard working. I am my own person--very independent. I am intelligent and friendly, but I do have a strong streak of selfishness and cunning. I am mentally alert and good with words. I have no qualms with running in the opposite direction if I consider my role 'unimportant'.

I have great compassion and I seek to be of service to others. I have concern for the weak and the downtrodden. I am a healer and love to assist others. I am capable of giving comfort to those in need, and I frequently offer a shoulder for others to cry on.

My task in life is to develop the tools necessary to truly assist others, rather than to simply be a sympathetic ear. I find the balance between help and interference. In the same way, I learn the delicate art of the counselor who knows when to leave the struggle to others and when to avoid taking away the necessary experiences and lessons of life. I am naturally balanced.

I tend to take responsibility, I often fill the void left by others, and I do not turn away from personal sacrifice. At times, I feel overburdened by the travails of others. However, the love others bestow upon me is my well-deserved reward.

I maintain harmony within my family or group balancing and fusing divergent forces. I seek a stable marriage and I will be a wonderful parent, offering warmth, protection and understanding to children.

I am are generous, kind and attractive. I am often admired, even adored, which baffles me. I am humble, and carry DEEP gratitude. I move well and gracefully, but I will have to work hard to stay in shape.

Alexander Supertramp

Christopher Johnson McCandless

I watched the movie, "Into The Wild" yesterday. WOW...WOW...WOW!!! I've got to be honest, I'm letting this movie mess with me a little. Is it human nature or spiritual nature to believe in such freedom? Is it truth or terror to be the one and only for yourself? Does happiness only exist in being shared (as it is portrayed in the movie)? How much does the HUMAN body actually hinder the spirit?

It's hard to not be envious of such ambition and genuine creation. I know many times in myself (and others) freedom seems to be a way of running away from what/who we are or are becoming. I get that...but I also get the newness and adventure of it! How refreshing that must have felt at times. You can look a million directions and find opinions about this storty. I will tell you mine. This man's life is authentic and raises questions and fire within my own being. This one will be a hard one for me to forget!!!! God bless you and keep you Christopher!!!

P to the A to the Tee RICE

Happy Birthday patty cakes! I love you! I am stunned by your beauty, amazed by your kindness and I continue to marvel at the compassion and love you freely give! A life touched by your heart is saved, honored and gently soothed. I absolutely adore you! My soul is forever changed by the print of your tenderness as I clutch to the support you so willingly breathe upon me. You are familiar and comfortable and will always be the one I call home.

You are beautiful and courageous!

I am eternally your baby, your friend and your number one fan!!!!

This is my favorite picture of my mom!

This is cuttie pants in Jamaica...whistle whistle!!!

My girls, my love!

Wierd, but I remember this robe! Silky soft...

At Mount Vernon on our Mommy Daughter Vacation...best trip EVER!- Daddy's little girl -

Vintage Hawaii

I just want your extra time and your . . . . . kiss

Casey, Great Grandma Ogden (I know, she IS SO CUTE), Mom, Me, Stacey

The Burning Question

Welcome to the 2008 edition of getting to know your Friends.

1. What time did you get up this morning? 8:30 AM
2. Diamonds or pearls? Diamonds
3. What was the last film you saw at the cinema? It's been a while...probably something like Back to the Future
4. What is your favorite TV show? hahaha...Rescue Me
5. What do you usually have for breakfast? If I make time for it...a protein shake
6. What is your middle name? Pat RICE
7. What food do you dislike? BEANS
8. What is your favorite song at the moment? "Soulmate" by Natasha Bedingfield
9. What kind of car do you drive? Jeep
10. Favorite sandwich? chicken salad
11. What characteristic do you despise? dominance
12. Favorite item of clothing? t shirt
13. If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation, where would you go? ITALY
14. Favorite brand of clothing? anything that fits
15. Where would you retire to? Cruise Ships
16. What was your most recent memorable birthday? This year...hit Wendover with my pops!!!
17. Most memorable time? recently...my impact training
18. Furthest place you are sending this? Virginia (what up sweets?)
19. Person you expect to send it back first? anyone that wants ONE MILLION dollars
20. Who are you Missing? RJ-a-doo and Gigi
21. When is your birthday? May 2
22. Are you a morning person or a night person? night person transitioning to a morning person
23. What is your shoe size? ten
24. Pets? Yep! Do you really know me???? C'MON
25. Any exciting news you would like to share with us? I am a compassionate, healing, acception, powerful woman of light!!!
26. What did you want to be when you were little? A Teacher or a Nurse
27. How are you today? FAB
29. What is your favorite flower? Gerber Daisies
30. What is a day on the calendar you are looking forward to? The day the Yankees are born
32. What is your full name? Chelsea Jello Tree Rump Roast Oatzie Chelky Babydoll PatRICE Erickson Smith
33. What are you listening to right now? michael buble
34. What was the last thing you ate? salad
35. Do you wish on stars? you bet cha
36. If you were a crayon, what color would you be? ocean blue
37. How is the weather right now? Beautifully HOT
38. Last person you spoke to on the phone? Teresa
39. Favorite soft drink? coke
40. Favorite restaurant? Benihanna
41. Hair color? Brown
42. What was your favorite toy as a child? my baby monsters
43. Summer or winter? BOTH
45. Chocolate or Vanilla? Umm...is gummy bear a flavor?
46. Coffee or tea? tea
47. Do you want your friends to email you back? Yes I do!
48. When was the last time you cried? today
49. What is under your bed? probably Ginger's toy pig
50. WHAT did you do last night? hmmm...
51. What are you afraid of? not being accepted
52. Salty or sweet? Sweet
53. How many keys on your key ring? 4
54. How many years at your current job? 3 months
55. Favorite day of the week? Today
56. How many towns have you lived in? 2
57. Do you make friends easily? no, but I pretend too
58. How many people will you send this to? everyone and anyone
59. How many will respond? 2.8 people
60. Do you like finding out all this stuff about your friends? Yes!!!!!!!

The Coolest Dad In The Universe

I am willing to argue one fact with anyone...I HAVE THE COOLEST DAD IN THE UNIVERSE!!! Some of my earliest memories with my dad are of him playing his guitar and singing my sisters and I to sleep at night. I'm not talking about a soothing, calming lullaby either. I mean The Doors, The Beatles, The Who, Simon and Garfunkel, Led Zepplin, Neil Young, Crosby Stills and Nash...you know the basic life blood of music.

I remember going to the 49th street galleria and recording "Proud Mary" in their sound booth with my sisters and my dad on a weekend outing. I remember practicing the words to "Where Have All The Flowers Gone," with my sisters so we could perform a concert for my parents.

I can also sing every song on the "Cats" broadway soundtrack and I always listen to Tom Petty's Full Moon Fever album each time I take a nature drive to the Hunstville Monastery.

I love my "little daddy!"

On July 4th my dad and his band, The Revised Edition, played at the Cottonwood Club. These are a few of the pictures and videos from that night. Some of them I posted for the sound only...OHHH, the sound!!! If you ever get the opportunity to watch your parents do something they absolutley love...CHERISH IT and never forget!!!!

Rockin' out!

"Can I have your autograph?" This was seriously SOOOO cute!!!

The Baby Boys were dancin'...Amy and I were loving it!

100 Years Of Cleve Erickson

Grandpa Cleve Erickson

Born: July 8, 1908

Died: November 29, 1973

Picture Taken: January 26, 1938

(My Grandparents Wedding Day)

This picture has much meaning to me. My grandpa is nearly 30 years old in this picture...my same age as I type these words. I only know my grandpa through the spiritual experiences I have with him and through the memories of those who know him from his life here.

I feel like I know him in a way that isn't easily communicated and is frequently not accepted well by others. Yet, I feel him still. Getting to know my grandpa over the last few years...in ways I won't mention...has given me a better understanding of the life he lived, the family he created and the man I call father. This relationship is so special and sacred.

He is still an integral part of my family even as he soars with angels and in most minds...gambles the winnings of heavenly horse races (I know it's ironic) and farms the lands of harvest.

Just look at this man! Look at what he has created! He has created life, happiness, LAUGHTER, work ethic, knowledge, discipline! His legacy still is being created! He has two grandsons growing and thriving right this minute. Grandsons that will bear his name...ERICKSON!!!

I am so blessed to be his granddaughter. I am blessed to be open to his love, his laughter and his talents! I am blessed to be open to his forgiveness and knowledge of his role in many lives. I am blessed to know him!!!! I LOVE YOU GRANDPA!!!

The year 1908…

United States President: Theodore Roosevelt

United States Vice President: Charles W. Fairbanks

United State Population: 88,710,000
Cost of a first-class stamp: $0.02 (1908 dime is pictured)

Petroleum production starts in Middle East.
The University of Alberta is founded in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
Mother's Day is observed for the first time
The Chicago Cubs win the World Series defeating Detroit (4-1)
The Montreal Wanderers win the Stanley Cup
The Kentucky Derby Champion is Stone Street

Glenwood and Fishlake Forests combined to form the Fishlake National Forest in Utah
Henry Ford develops the first Model T automobile, which sells for $850

Goddess Divine

~ Pride and Prejudice ~

Mr. Darcey: How are you this evening, my dear?
Elizabeth Bennet: Very well... although I wish you would not call me "my dear."
Mr. Darcy: Why?
Elizabeth Bennet: Because it's what my father always calls my mother when he's cross about something.
Mr. Darcy: What endearments am I allowed?
Elizabeth Bennet: Well let me think...”Lizzie" for every day, "My Pearl" for Sundays, and..."Goddess Divine"...but only on *very* special occasions.

"I hate quotations. Tell me what you know."

The title to this post is an actual quote from Emerson. To be honest, it sums up what I feel about alot of people and events in life. I love to hear authentic views, thoughts, feelings, perceptions and experiences. Keeping that in mind I also identify with the fact that quotes were at one time someones own knowledge. The great lesson I continue to learn about knowledge is that it is ever increasing and ever changing. What will happen with what I know today? How will it increase? Will it be false? Will it change my life? These questions float lazily in my mind always but rise to coat the ever active imagination of this thirty year old-five year old. It is with these questions that I continue on...

Today is Independence Day! How grateful I am for my freedom!!!! I am blessed to speak, feel and love what, when and whom I choose. I am blessed with the ability to create life, love and happiness. What a beautiful world I live in! So often I hear varying views on the destruction and chaos around us. Today I CHOOSE to feel the love and to give love! It is this world that I trust to surround my family and encourage my friends. It is this world that I cultivate and prepare for my own children to be sustained by. It is this world that my sweet brothers will enter with the innocent eyes of heaven! And it is THIS world that is MY test! I would not choose it another way. I will no longer speak of the times when I would. This is the place I am in and it is up to me to make each day count. Yes, I am one person, one woman...and how divine that is! I can not speak for you, but I know my ancestors & my forefathers were conscious of my existence and the path I walk. I know they gave and worked for my very survival. I AM GRATEFUL!!! I AM BLESSED!!!