Ed and Stephanie Johnson

Fishing Trip with Grandpa

2010-06-08T21:15:00.000-07:00

Grandpa loves to fish and better yet he loves taking his two grandson's Caden and Conner with him when he goes. He loves to fish the banks of Scofield, when the boat is still at Lake Powell. It's the end of June when hot weather forces the move to cooler climates. The boat is then trailered from Lake Powell and finds the slip up the Strawberry Reservoir, another favorite fishing venue he fishes regularly in the summer. The boys had a great time with grandpa! I'm sure there were a few fish stories floating around! Fishing was good, company was great and the day was one of the best all year! Another fond memory for all!

A Daughter's Tribute - Happy Mother's Day

2010-05-09T13:22:00.000-07:00

To my mother, with all my love and appreciation
for all you have given me.
Your daughter, Stephanie

What life would there be
to what one do I owe
A women of faith
whom I love and bestow

She's taught me what's right
and she leads by example
And always with love
offers guidance and counsel

Very proper and gracious
by all she is sought
A lady of purpose
her values never forgot

It is on this Mother's Day
for I wish her to know
I will be forever touched
by her sweet inner glow

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY, I hope you don't think I'll be following in your footsteps as the next family poet. It really doesn't come naturally for me, sorry. Love you!

My Mother, Muriel Jenkins Heal Bywater

D.I. Finds

2010-05-06T17:23:00.000-07:00

It is the little things that make the moments mean so much. Like the day I took Conner and Allie to GG (Great Grandmothers) house for a visit.

GG has so many fun unusual toys and games to play with it. It's
the newness, the surprising, and peculiar items that
makes the visit more adventurous. They had a great time......

And then the trip to DI (Deseret Industries) to
find a "treasure"! (My favorite past time!) I got more fun out of seeing the look on their faces when they found not one but four Webkinz. Their favorite furry friends!

Allie and Conner loved playing with Grandpa Gordon's model car collection. It made me a little nervous because they were very fragile and probably very collectible. They loved playing with the music box GG keeps for special visits, such as this. They
had a great time. We will be back again real soon GG, thanks and we love you!

A Special Day of Celebration!

2009-07-04T11:42:00.000-07:00

It seem like yesterday that our first grandchild was born on that beautiful sunny 4th of July nine years today. His name would be known as Caden Nicholas Parcell. He entered this world with a twinkle in his eye and a smile on his face, as if he knew this was a special day of celebration. He knows what this day represents, and has always been so happy to share his birthday with all American's. It was this picture, I took today, that captured his sweet acknowledgement of its meaning. I am proud of Caden and what he has become and what he stands for. He loves his country! And so, again we celebrate Caden's birth and the birth of our freedom, to which I know Caden will always hold dear to his heart. He has brought us all much joy and happiness. Happy Birthday Caden, we love you!

"Just A Farmer"

2009-06-21T11:43:00.000-07:00

To this man, I pay tribute to. He came into my life when Nick was just 4 years old. He told me, he wanted to love us and take care of us. He has always been there for us in every way. At the early age of 15, he lost his father. He found out at that point in his life, the responsibilities that lies in providing a foundation for a family. He was the oldest of three boys and faced hardships and challenges most adult men don't ever confront. He knew he had to take care of his family! There was never any question, any uncertainty or doubt in his mind. A man of hard work, honesty, loyalty and above all, a man of love. He raised two wonderful boys, for which I know they both grew to know of the importance of providing for each of their families. It is his simple and unpretentious love that is reflected in each of his boys, Jeff and Nick. I watched them grow into men of principles, purpose, and unconditional love for their own families. So it is the farmer and cultivator, that prepares the earth for the seeds to grow and propagate. What a beautiful family we have become because of this farmer's care and nurturing. Job well done! Happy Father's Day, we love you!

My Dad, William Ward Heal

2009-06-18T06:28:00.000-07:00

June 18, 1919 my dad was born. He would have been 90 years old today. He left this world way too early at age 62. I have been thinking of how much different his life would have been had he lived to see this day.
It was just months after dad died that I married my one true love, and I know he and Ed would have really enjoyed knowing each other. Dad's famous fishing rock at Vivian Park on the Provo river was where they would spend hours getting to know each other, and talk of their many ' fish stories'.
He would be taking not only his two daughters to the annual Provo Rotary 'Daddy Daughter Date' but most likely accompanying several granddaughter's and great granddaughter's, all in their Cinderella attire, to that special event we so looked forward too.
He would have to include a few more dozen eggs and sausage to provide for the many family members he would be cooking for, at our Canyon Glen family breakfasts. And the roaring fire he would build, surely provided the warmth and atmosphere to stage his many life story's, we would be 'all ears' to hearing.
He would be teaching his great grand children the famous 'Heal whistle call'. And tell them how he would whistle, to call his kids to supper or when he wanted them to come home.
He would be enjoying his later years with the love of his life, 63 years still trying their act in singing and harmonizing together. He would be loving the spring rain and beautiful rose garden that his sweet wife tends and cares for.
And it was the little things that he always enjoyed most, the 'one on one' lunch dates with his kids, or a hand written note to someone always expressing his love or appreciation. The simple phone call to say hi and catch up on each of our busy lives.
He would be preparing to go to his 90th birthday party, for which he always looked forward to sharing another family get-together. He would be enjoying the many hours playing and watching his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren pamper him and dote over him.
Yes, there is much he missed in this life, but I bet there isn't an occasion or a moment in each of our lives that goes by, he's not living it along with us!! We, love you Dad, Happy Birthday!

'SMORE'S ANYONE?

2009-06-09T08:17:00.001-07:00

We just finished our new project to our yard............our new fire pit. I think between Ed and I we ended up with a masterpiece! We really do our best work together. ya know. His BRAWN and my BRAINS! Anyway we have enjoyed inviting family and friends to enjoy a hot dog or try your art at toasting a marshmallow to create a yummy 'smore'.

Nick, the expert marshmallow toaster
(I taught him everything he knows)

Some one not as skilled, but liked it a little more toasted than most

Jen's enjoying the delicacy!

Caden devouring one he toasted himself.

..........and some, like Conner and Corbin would
rather play on the four wheeler.

Colton and Quinton are taking it all in

No more smore's for you Jeff! Holly, you have a good excuse, you are eating for two!

Allie just likes being snuggled by Grandpa

Ashley says, "just one more"

Chris and Dick ' a laid back moment'

It's times like these we can look back on and say, "we want Sooooommmmoooooooorrrrrre!! And I guarantee you there will be!

Happy Anniversary Honey!

2009-06-05T19:02:00.001-07:00

Our Wedding Day May 22, 1982

27 wonderful years later and much more in love

I guess some of us get so rapped up in our own little happy life that occasionally we miss our wedding anniversary. Some of you are thinking....NEVER! Well, it happened on our 10th year and again this year on our 27th. I remember that wonderful spring day 27 years ago, my life was changed forever. But never forgotten? Well...............it's good that we both forgot it together and can laugh together when we realize it. My life would be so empty had I not met and married the man of my dreams. I want my wonderful husband to know how much I love him! I want him to know that I choose to celebrate each and every day we can be together. Our life of 27 years has been an unbelievable venture and I look forward to spending each and every year REMEMBERING! Happy Anniversary honey!

She was there!

2009-05-12T18:22:00.000-07:00

You tell me.......... this picture was discovered after I had taken several pictures at the grave site. I can't really explain it but I know what it represents..............SHE WAS THERE!

It was the day of Judy Young's memorial (my niece Nichole's mother in law). Such a beautiful day in memory of such a wonderful and dear person. We arrived at the cemetery, parked the car in formation to most of the cars that had got there before us. We started walking up the road in the general direction of what seemed to be her graveside. I was in awe at the number of people that came to pay their respect and love for this genuine lady. Judy was stricken with cancer thirteen years ago. She was a person that put everyone before herself. A lady that demonstrated courage and yet was persistent to keep her spirits high. I was reminded of that, that beautiful sunny Saturday morning, when viewing my pictures taken at the graveside. This picture was in the mist of a series taken at the grave site. She was there! And not alone. There is no doubt in my mind that this photo was exactly what it represented. Unexplainable? Or was it her way of letting us know that she was at peace. And who, more deserving of it! Judy we will miss you and thank you for having been a part of your life.

School Pictures

2009-05-11T15:40:00.000-07:00

Nicholas Parcell, age 8 2nd Grade School Picture
Ashley Parcell, 1st Grade and................. Caden Parcell, 2nd Grade

Remember when? Those days come and go so fast, wishing that we could relive the hopscotch, jacks, and many other school day recess game. But we always looked forward to the "picture day". The day we all wore our "best dress" and took time to comb our hair, putting every hair perfectly in its place. Here are Caden's 2nd grade and Ashley's 1st grade 2008-09 school year pictures. I thought their dad's 2nd grade picture was probably one of my favorite. Pretty dang cute!!!!

This kid has potential!

2009-04-24T15:21:00.000-07:00

The "Artist" Conner William Parcell Age 4 Before picture

The "Masterpiece"

My little Conner is a kid from a different planet most of the time. But you've got to admit he sure can accomplish something when he puts his mind to it. He and Allie came over to Grandma and Grandpa's to play awhile. They love getting the
paints or crayons out and make us pretty pictures. Allie has always been very creative to use a lot of colors and take her time. As for Conner he loves to use one or two colors and scribble all over the paper. Grandma took
some time with him and tried to explain how to stay within the lines and use a lot of color. Here are the results. I am very proud of his efforts and the time he took! His hand was very tired after coloring this beautiful masterpiece. This one is a keeper and so is the picture!

April "WHAT" bring May flowers

2009-04-16T07:20:00.000-07:00

It's April 16, 2009, and Mother Nature delivered us a most unexpected surprise. A foot of snow. The budded trees bending as if to curtsy to the majestic awe. It is what it is and I for one cannot deny its beauty, even though I long for a green palette.

An Easter Treat

2009-04-15T18:24:00.000-07:00

My Easter treat was a day filled with family togetherness, attending church with my darling grandchildren who's participation in their primary opening exercises brought tears to my eyes, lots of pretty dresses and curls, little boys hugs for attention, concluding with a wonderful family dinner. I love the Easter bunny, Easter eggs, and all the Easter trimmings, but my love and attention at Easter focuses primarily on the greatest of Easter treats..... the fact and knowledge that our Savior, Jesus Christ lives, and what we all gain because of Him. Happy Easter!

"Happy Birthday to You"

2009-03-28T07:41:00.000-07:00

Stephanie & Christie 5 months and 'all smiles'

Our mother Muriel holding her beautiful 'girls'

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TEE TEE!
I've had the wonderful opportunity to share my 59 birthday's with my twin sister, Christie, better known as Tee Tee. That is what we called each other when we were little because it sounded like Christie as well as Stephanie, when you are 2 or 3 years old. It's not everyone that can share their birthday with their best friend. We are very close and do most everything together. We live just a few miles from each other, and call each other most everyday. I'm the oldest by 26 minuets, and she reminds me frequently of that! I'm glad she is my sister and I love her very much and wish her a very Happy Birthday! We are usually able to celebrate our birthday together, but this year she is in Arizona visiting her son and daughter. I'll be thinking of her and remembering all the beautiful memories we have shared throughout the years. I LOVE YOU TEE TEE!

The Best Part of Growing Older

2009-03-14T18:31:00.000-07:00

My beautiful "babies"

Conner "Hey guys wanna get under my umbrella"?

Allie and Ashley, playing dressups at Grandma's

Easter 'bags' bring Easter smiles!

Allie and Conner at Primary Children's Hospital
Conner you were such a trooper to go through
such an ordeal.
Ashley and Caden "best friends"
Caden's birthday, July 4th Doesn't everyone wish
they had such a celebration on their birthday!

Proud grandpa and grandma with such beautiful grandkids

Our grandchildren are probably the most precious possessions we have! We are so blessed and thankful for their sweet little spirits. Caden born July 4th 2000 was our first born. It was our greatest pleasure to be able to view the birth of our 1st grandson. We were reminded the day our own first born son's were delivered. Ashley, born August 22, 2002, presented herself as the first princess of this family, and that she is! Her sweet little presence into this world brought a few tears to a proud grandpa 's eye. 2004 brought our family heart ache, with the passing of son Jeff, but tremendous joy of the birth of our beautiful twins, Allie and Conner, born November 1, 2004. We knew in our hearts that Jeff had a hand in preparing these precious little spirits to be sent to our family. Born the same day as grandpa's birthday, and what a birthday present they were! Allie was brought into our arms by her daddy, so small but so very bright eyed as if to say "hello" to the new world around her. Our sweet little Conner was a little more apprehensive in making his entry into this life. He struggled with some developmental problems at first, and recently was stricken with a blood disorder. But throughout his short little life, has been compelled to fight the difficulties he has come to know, and become the strong and healthy little boy we love so much today. We will continue to love and cherish each and every one. We hope to inspire their love of the gospel of Jesus Christ, and know that through His love comes the everlasting love within.

From Sun and Fun to Cold and Snow!

2009-03-06T16:33:00.000-08:00

Mexican dancers perform at the La Casa Country

LaRell and Lyle Burton, Stephanie and Ed Johnson dine at
Pueblo Bonito Mazatlan

Stephanie & Ed showing a little skin at the pool

What a great week we had in Mazatlan Mexico! We felt like we had traveled to a far off country. The morning of February 23, we left SLC airport at 7:10am and arrived in Mazatlan Mexico at 12:00 noon. The temp was 85 degrees sunny and humid (which made my skin feel like I just had a hydrating treatment) We pretty much laid around by the pool, ate, shopped in town or bartered with the peddlers on the beach and visited with friends we have made over the years. The money exchange rate was 140 pesos equal to $10.00. The best we have seen in the 20 years. We found a new little shopping center called Cerritos, pretty much has same stuff to buy as anywhere else, but had some fun little sidewalk cafe's that had great food. We found a cute little restaurant to eat breakfast, over looking the beach full of wave surfers. It was fun watching them surf the wakes and swim back out and wait for another big one. There was an out door shower they would use after to wash all the salt off of their boards and bodies. The evenings began with beautiful sun sets that took our breath away and set the mood for dining and long conversations and midnight walks on the beach.......although we skipped some of those late walks for an earlier hot bath and retire to the bedroom. A decision I didn't particularly think I made any sacrifice for. Sorry a little too much information for some........I'm willing to elaborate for others for a small price. HeHe! You would too, if you were on the verge of bankruptcy! Anyway, back to the old grind, more cold snowy March weather ahead. We were so grateful to have been able to vacation to such a beautiful place, but there really isn't any better place to come home to than our own beautiful valley and our own comfy bed. Looking forward to next year same time same place.

Ours Is No Ordinary Love

2009-02-14T14:38:00.000-08:00

"Could any memory be as thrilling as when we first fell in love? I remember the tingle in every touch, the anticipation of ever kiss, and the excitement I felt just being near you. I knew this was no ordinary love, and that life with you would be amazing"..............And it still is.
HAPPY VALENTINES DAY ED, I LOVE YOU!

Mexico Fever

2009-02-06T15:41:00.000-08:00

Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay - Mazatlan, Mexico

Every year in February Ed and I take a much needed week long trip to Mazatlan, Mexico. We get real tired of the snow and cold weather by then and want to get away to a much warmer climate. Ten years ago in 1998 we started going to Mazatlan and haven't missed a year since. We fell in love with the area, the people, and what's not to love about beautiful sandy beaches, 80 to 85 degree weather, and the pure succulence of sipping a cold fruit toddy by the swimming pool. So February is the month I go to the tanning salon for a start on my tan, starve myself for three weeks to lose and few inches to fit into a swimsuit, and start laying out my wardrobe.

The Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay is a gated resort set along Mexico's western coastline. Spanish ornate is combined with warm Mexican-style architecture.

Summer clothes to go through for Mexico trip...

anybody got another suitcase?

The End of the Archaic Dial Up

2009-01-28T21:31:00.000-08:00

I did it! I did it! I found a way to get high speed and get it affordably. WildBlue Satellite provides satellite internet here in our area. I ordered it today so I should really get up to speed with the blogging network. I'm so excited! I'll be able to listen to music without it stopping every 10 seconds. I've really been in the dark ages with the internet service I have. These days are so criticle to have high speed and its finally something I get to enjoy. So hold on to your seats, I'm soon to be text'n and link'n and script'n and post'n with the rest of ya. Stay tuned for more.

ANNUAL SNOW PARTY

2009-01-04T08:00:00.001-08:00

Every year Ed and I host an annual CANYON SNOW/SLEIGH PARTY with my sister Christie's family, our kids and grandkids, grandparents, aunts and uncles, friends and neighbors who happens to wanders up the canyon to join us. This year was probably the biggest group we've had and one of the most memorable. This was the first year Christie and Dick's family were able to all be here together. And together more memories were made, capturing bundled up kids with only their rosy cheeks exposed, good conversation and laughs, chilli and wasil to warm our tummy's, and yet another new year to look forward to. We are so thankful and blessed to live in such a beautiful place as Hobble Creek Canyon and enjoy the beauty and peace it provides. Here's to the many more to come!