A Bit of Britt

The House that built me.....

2011-03-07T08:09:00.000-08:00

Emotions were close to the surface as I pulled into the driveway. This would probably be the last time I came to visit this old home. It was more than just a house to me. It was my grandparents home. The home my father and his brother and sister were raised in. And since my grandparents death my Aunt and Uncle had been living in it. But it was my house to.......it was the house that built me.

There were so many lessons I learned coming to this home. I loved going to visit my grandparents. When I lived on the outer islands (Hawaii , Molokai) Mom and Dad would let me come visit Oahu and stay with Grandma and Grandpa. When we moved back to Oahu our visits were almost every sunday for Grandpas dinners......sometimes it was just sandwiches, chips and yummy bread and butter pickles. It always tasted the best at their home. I learned how important family was in this home.

I learned to pray at this house. When I would spend the night Grandma would always come upstairs and tuck me in. She would pray with me. Even when I was a teenager she would still do this.

I learned about Jesus in this house. Grandma would always bear here testimony to me and how important the gospel of Jesus Christ is. She caught me I was a Child of God. I was important.

I learned how to cardboard slide at this house. Grandma would take me to mid pacific hills just a walk away and we would tackle the large hills. Grandma would even do it. It still brings a smile to my face. I learned you can have fun at any age. We all are still kids at heart.

So many lessons, so many memories, so much love from this home. It is hard for me to say goodbye.

I can still see my grandmother standing in the front window waving goodbye to us. She did that every time we left her home.

I am grateful for this house that built me.

What every girl needs....a really awesome camera bag!

2010-04-07T13:14:00.000-07:00

Yes I really need an awesome camera bag! Epiphanie Camera bag is THE ONE I want. I think all my girlfriends need one. Make sure you tell your husbands I said that.

Even better tho is a chance to win one for free........ so check out these cute things and enter yourself in "Phatstraps" giveaway......http://phatstraps.com/phatstraps-giveaway.

And hey if you do not win remember .......I have justified it for

you to purchase on because EVERYONE needs have a cute bag to carry their camera in!

Christmas Traditions

2009-12-29T21:40:00.001-08:00

I love traditions! Especially the Christmas traditions that we have formed in my family. These are things we look forward to each year. The traditions that we reflect back on year after year. Christmas Traditions can be valuable lessons on what the focus of Christmas should really be for. It also brings fun, great memories and unity to a family. This is why I love our Christmas Traditions. Below are a few of my favorites I look forward to each year.
Christmas Eve is such a blast since Mom and Dad moved to Arizona. They live only a mile away so Getting together happens often. The White Elephant Gift Exchange is so hilarious each year. Of course one gift is always re gifted and shows up each year. Our re gift is a Filipino man riding a water buffalo. Grandpa and Grandma Morgado had this in their collection. I am assuming that they got it when they lived in the Philippines. This year when it showed up as one of the White Elephant gifts it had an extra special reminder for me......My eldest Son Rian is on a Church Mission in the Philippines. It got "stolen' from each other (that is how the game goes) until finally Rylee ended up with it. It is her prized possession now. I wonder if next year it will show up as one of the gifts.....hahaha. The evening always ends with a birthday Cake for Baby Jesus. The youngest member in the family gets to blow out the candle. Ethan, my cute nephew, had the honor.

My children have been taking piano from miss Julie for 12 years now. WOW! Rylee and Kati are still in it and Brock took on the challenge a year ago to join them and learn. So going to the piano recital is so great to see the progress of everyone.

Decorating Mom and Dad's Christmas tree is a blast from the past! Putting up all the old ornaments from when I was a child is so much fun. Plus seeing the ones that my great, great grandmother made brings family to the center of the holidays.

Christmas Jelly has been a tradition in my family for about 9 years now. This recipe was not handed down thru generations but actually from the Schwan guy that delivers ice cream to your door. I saw it in one of their pamphlets and started making it. It became a hit to give to family and friends for Christmas. Every year we go with our dear friends the Wilsons and deliver 'Bread and Jelly' to our neighbors as we are caroling. So instead of figgy pudding our neighbors get brought -Bread and Jelly! A much better treat.

The Lights at the Mesa Temple are always so wonderful to see. This year our teens helped put up some of the lights so it was extra special for them. A display of different nativities from around the world were in the visitors center. And seeing several from the Philippines made me miss Rian even more. My friend Cherie was in town visiting from Atlanta so she was able to join this evening with us. Also the Bizzette family and several of the kids friends joined us.

Turkey Day...Oh what a day we had

2009-12-03T21:23:00.001-08:00

Our Turkey day was filled with Thanksgiving, fun and a ton of food. We had 43 people for Thanksgiving. We had a ton of family come from out of state to celebrate in Arizona. Places like.....Seattle, California, Colorado and Hawaii. It was one of my favorite Thanksgivings. After all it is all about family and the memories for me. My Moms cousins (Andersons and Mckenzies) all came with their children and Grandchildren. My Fathers Brother and his family joined us again....which my kids always love to see Jessie. Jessie even taught the 'Haoles' how to dance the Tahitian. THAT was a site to see. If you look at the photos above you can see my brother really getting into it. And Uncle Stan and Aunt Candace are putting some groove on.
Dad cooked 3 turkeys, Kathy made her homemade stuffing (amazing!), Lana made homemade cranberry sauce, Ada made Cobbler with blackberries from Kentucky. Oh I can go on and on about the fabalous food we had. Thanks to all who brought food!
Getting to know my cousins better was such a highlight for me. I also enjoyed the stories Uncle Stan told about my great grandfather Harrington. My cousin Colleen had the cutest 5 boys you have ever seen who swam in my freezing cold pool.....thats what you get for having thick blood and living in Colorado. Sarah kept busy playing with JJ and Tims darling two children. Everyone got some loving. I am so grateful that everyone made the effort to come out to Arizona. My cup runneth over with gratitude and love for my family.
My AMAZING, FABALOUS, Family at Thanksgiving!

A Labor Day weekend.

2009-09-17T20:10:00.000-07:00

I have finally gotten a chance to post on my blog. So many events have happend but I thought posting the Labor Day weekend fun would be first on my list. We had the Rollender, Gray, Wilson and Olmstead families over for a barbaque. (Plus the mass of teens that came with it.) We had a great time visiting with some of our friends. We are sure blessed.

Cody's Prom

2009-05-20T13:34:00.000-07:00

Cody and Alyssa Marcinko

22 awesome kids and a night of fun! Cody really has a great group of friends. They have good values, standards and are a ton of fun!!! A bunch of us moms put together an incredible meal for a dinner to remember. The Jarvis family was kind to let us use their resort....I mean back yard. Robert Olmstead took prom pics for the kids and James's dad cooked the steak....

Happy National Scrapbooking day!

2009-05-02T19:17:00.000-07:00

Some of my favorite artists.."the ettes"...are offering wonderful savings on their website ! I got 5 new scrapbook pages done with freebies that were offered.

WOW we found Paradise!

2009-03-13T07:46:00.000-07:00

Yes paradise was found again!

Brock and I traveled to Hawaii for 4 days in Hauula, Hawaii on Oahu and then 4 days to Hilo, Hawaii on the Big Island.

We were so blessed to stay at family friends beach house in Hauula and then at my Aunts vacation rental in Hilo.

The Hilo property just knocked our socks off. The words that can only describe it is WOW and AMAZING! Their website does not do it justice; http://www.reedsisland.com/ . Brock and I have traveled all over the world and this place has to be one of the most beautiful.

The property sits just 12 miles from the Hilo airport and is situated on the Wailuku River. The amazing 40 plus Foot waterfall is the main attraction on this property. The home sits on top the hill for a breath taken view of the falls and the river. The Architecture design of this home is amazing. It is designed to see and hear the falls at all times.

The best part of the trip was jumping into the falls and enjoying the smaller falls up the river as we explored. Some of the falls had warmer water seeping through.

The Falls at Reeds Island has to be experienced once in everyones life time. Thank you Aunt Janey and Uncle Jack for these Fabulous 4 days!

Do you want something FREE from ME?

2009-02-12T14:42:00.000-08:00

Everyone loves something FREE!

Here it is. and I plan on carrying this through. Lucky you! The first five people to respond to this post will get something made by me! My choice. For you.
This offer does have some restrictions and limitations:
1. I make no guarantees that you will like what I make!2. What I create will be just for you.
3. It'll be done this year. {might be a little while}
4. You have no clue what it's going to be. It may be a story. It may be poetry or maybe even some creation I haven't even invented yet . I may draw or paint something. I may bake you something and mail it to you. Who knows? Not you, that's for sure!
5. I reserve the right to do something extremely strange.
The catch?
Oh, the catch is that you must repost this on your blog and offer the same to the first 5 people who do the same on your blog. The first 5 people to do so and leave a comment telling me they did and WHY they want something FREE.........wins a FAB-U-LOUS homemade gift by me!
* * *Oh, and be sure to post pictures of what you win when you get it and what you made for your winners!***

Go Arizona Cardinals!

2009-02-02T15:15:00.000-08:00

It was such a blast hanging out with our friends and families watching the Arizona Cardinal game! It was sooooooo close. I was dissapointed that the Steelers won because of the BAD sportsmanship they dissplayed in the 2 half of the game. Both teams played great but to see a team so eager to pick a fit is terrible for my kids to see. Not great roll models. As always in the Booher household it lead into a great values conversation on sportsmanship and winning. We were proud to be Arizona Cardinals!

My little girl---My little Basketball player

2009-01-19T17:04:00.000-08:00

Rylee was asked to play basketball this year on a rec team. She is a tall girl and so her height advantage is great for the game. I do not know much about Basketball so thank heavens our friend and Rylees piano teacher Julie is coaching the team. She does a fantastic job. The girls have learned a lot.

I get a kick out of watching Rylee play. She is very fast and very competitive BUT when she sits on that bench she looks like a little prim and proper girl with her legs crossed. I laugh because she looks the most lady like every time! Oh Rylee I adore watching you!

Locks of Love

2009-01-06T18:34:00.001-08:00

Sarah has not cut her hair but one time for a trim while being with us. That will be almost 3 years. She has always longed for long hair. When in the Orphanage in Russia, they would always keep her hair VERY short. It was something she hated. So her goal was to have long hair and to also make the decision when it was cut.
This winter break I told her that it was time for a trim. Her hair was looking pretty stringy. I also told her about what some girls do when they cut their hair......they donate it to "Locks of Love" so that children with cancer can have a wig. She thought that would be a really nice thing to do. I was so proud of her. When she found out how much needed to be cut off ......she had to way out the decision. This would mean that she would have the dreaded short hair. She decided to do it anyway to help the children. Way to go Sarah! She did something good AND she looks fabulous in her new haircut.

How one simple moment became a wonderful Christmas memory.

2008-12-29T11:27:00.001-08:00

Our Christmas was a different one this year. Brock was gone til the 26th and so we had decided to post pone our family "Christmas". Then to add another thing into the mix.....my brother Jared called a few days before Christmas with a plea of help from his friend. And that is where the wonderful memory began.......

Jared's kind hearted friend Jake has for years been going down around Christmas time to Mexico to deliver food, clothing and hygiene kits to those in need. This time they had two 35 foot trailers filled to the top with donated items from people. He needed translators and helping hands to deliver and hand out the items. Our family decided to post pone Christmas even longer so that we could go down on the 26th to help. There were a total of 20 of us who traveled for 4 hours down to Mexico. We went to places near Rocky Point, Mexico. We found small pockets of families living in Cardboard homes with out electricity or running water. Children that were wearing no shoes or jackets in the 40 degree weather. A young mother , 16 years old, that had a new born child .....she had no blanket or warm clothes for the child. Her roof was palm leaves and some wood. One of the ladies with us taught her how to swaddle her baby in a blanket to keep her warm. We saw a man that did not wish for anything for himself but was so grateful to have just clothes for his down syndrome son. We went into these homes and saw how they lived. We visited areas that have never seen help or visitors.

As Cody, my son, said "I just wanted to give the shirts off my back and the shoes I had on!"

The Scripture in Matthew came to mind several times "In as much as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me." Matthew 25:40

This moment truly became a wonderful Christmas Memory.

A wise child and a wonderful sweet message of Christmas.

2008-12-24T13:23:00.000-08:00

This young child is so wise.....he knows something that many adults will never want to know. This is a recording from a young boy calling into a Christian Radio station. May we all remember the true meaning of Christmas and remember our Savior Jesus Christ. And how much our Heavenly Father loves us for giving us his son.
Merry christmas everyone!

The Twilight Before Christmas

2008-12-17T15:44:00.001-08:00

Click here..... http://www.take180.com/s/The_Twilight_Before_Christmas/ep5l7 or

I laughed so hard with this. Of course I am a twilight fan. I have to thank juice box for putting some "Twilight" into my Christmas.

Santa came early!

2008-12-06T15:17:00.000-08:00

We belong to the best church group ever! Our Yearly Christmas breakfast is always a delight for the children and the adults like the no fuss. (we can wear our PJ's if we want) Brock helped out with the cooking. We have this nifty pancake funnel that drops the batter on to the griddle for perfect pancakes. In the photos above ---1. Brock is in his Santa hat with Jared Annes making the pancakes. 2. Santa came this year all ready to hand out coloring books and candy. 3.My three girls were the only ones in our family willling to get a picture with Santa. I have to say he was a great looking Santas helper. He put up with the children (and some adults) sitting on his knee and even a few screaming babies.

Teenagers are fun.

2008-12-03T16:58:00.000-08:00

Teenagers are fun... I am very entertained by the things that they do sometimes. Cody got asked to the Winter Formal and watching his date and her friends destroy Codys room was very fun to watch. They tore up a ton of phone books and decorated his room.....Our dog got lost in the pile. The best part was when Cody came home. His friend Chase and him cleaned it up and I was just praying that all the junk he had laying on the floor under those telephone pages where also being thrown away. :) Cody awnsered Justice back with a container of fortune cookies and a message inside them.

Do ya know how to hula.....hoop?

2008-11-24T07:24:00.001-08:00

Do you know how to hula-hoop? My family thinks they do! When we were at the park celebrating dads birthday, we took a bunch of hula-hoops with us. We made them at the Booher family reunion this past summer. They have gotten a lot of mileage. We dive thru them in the pool, throw them up in the air, jump thru them, and even swish them around our hips.

The best was watching my mom do it. Cody is a pro with 5 around him. Rylee can walk around while swishing the hoop around her. Kati is steady and confident. my sister in law Jen still has it in her. Sophie my niece wiggles like a hula girl. Austin my nephew can even swish that hoop. So if you want a hula hoop competition give us a call and BRING IT!

Cody and his 5 hoops

Mom and Rylee showing what they got.

Austin my nephew showing his style.......fingers up hips rotate to the left.

Hawaii no ka oi!

2008-11-04T18:47:00.001-08:00

Brock and I had such a great time in Hawaii with Jason and Amy Jarvis. It was a quick trip but we did a ton. We even got Amy up on the surfboard! The best was her and I catching a wave together side by side and high fiving each other.......yep one of those moments forever in our memories. It was the first time for the Jarvis's and so it was great seeing their excitment for the island that I love. They had to put up with my commentaries tho of every place........We had a good laugh about that. I was a pretty good GPS for everyone also.
We did the crazy thing in renting a convertible.....that was a laugh getting all the luggage in pluse the 4 of us.
Kumo cove we saw the turtles.......Scuba at Hanauma Bay.......... dinner at the Outrigger....... eating warm malasadas at Leonards Bakery........ahhhhhhhh I can not wait to go back.

mmmmmmmm those malasadas.

Amy and My toes in the sand........

Trying not to get our heads on fire......

Brock and I at the Outrigger Canoe club

Rian and the MTC October 22 2008

2008-11-04T18:28:00.000-08:00

Yep a little late posting this..... But I still wanted to share. It was a fantastic experience taking Rian to the MTC. As I put on his name tag,, I had such a sense of pride. He is going to make such a fantastic missionary.

The Missionary Training Center is an amazingly organized facility. Before we said goodbye to Rian we had a nice chapel service. Rian was asked to give the opening prayer. Yes we had tears in our eyes when we said goodbye and we had to pry Rylee off of him.

Rians Address....he would love to hear from everyone.....

Elder Rian Booher

MTC Mailbox #198

PHI-QUE 1222

2005 N. 900 E.

Provo, Utah 84604-1793

Elder Rian Booher

2008-10-20T17:13:00.000-07:00

Tonight Rian becomes Elder Rian Booher. WOW! I can not believe that he leaves tomorrow to the Missionary Training Center. For two months, they will teach him the language of Tagalog and how to teach the missionary discussions. Then off to the Quezon City, Philippines mission. I am so proud of Rian and the young man he has become. He has prepared for this time in his life to share the gospel of Jesus Christ and serve people less fortunate then him. What a wonderful experience he will have.

Even tho I have a saddness in my heart for him leaving our home for 2 years......I also am excited for him and the adventure he will be on.

Last night we had a going away party for him. Thanks to everyone that came and wished him well. He really was so touched by the kindness of people coming. I have already copied the cards and photos so that he can take them with him. His and our families lives are so richly blessed to have such wonderful family and friends. These cards and photos will lift him during those trials and homesick days.

A "wIcKEd' Show!

2008-10-16T15:57:00.000-07:00

This week I had a great time with my Mom going to California to see "Wicked" the theater production. (She took me for my birthday present from 2 years ago...lolol. we finally found time.) It was amazing! I caught myself several times staring with my mouth open and also getting chills from the wonderful work these actors did. I love this story better than the "Dorothy"Version......... I think I am more of an "Elphie".

Before the show Mom and I went down to the Fabric Market. What a great place to find fabric at great prices. When we went to the theater that night we got to walk down the Hollywood Stars.......we stepped on one of my ancestors! Spring Byington is my Great Grandmothers Sister. I had to take a picture....if I can figure out how to get it off my cell phone I will post it.

Thanks Mom for a great trip!

Fall Break

2008-10-10T18:13:00.000-07:00

Fall break is about to end. As a family we tried to enjoy the days we could with all of us home. Rian leaves in a little over a week. For a couple of days we camped on the lake and enjoyed our last moments of the season wakeboarding, tubing and surfing.

We played frisbie, football, had a fire and everyone got along.....even Rylee commented how great it was being all together having fun. We all voted that next year we had to do this again. I kinda chuckled to my self that the least amount of money we have ever spent on a family vacation was this little camp out and of course it was their favorite. It just proves that you can still have wonderful life moments together and not waste money doing it.

Teenagers and Cell Phones

2008-10-02T14:17:00.001-07:00

Teenagers and their cell phones...... It surprises me sometimes "WHERE" they text on their phones. Recently Cody had to purchase a new phone. Why you ask? Did it just stop working? yes. Did he drop it? That would be a BIG yes. But WHERE did he drop it is the best question to ask. Read this comic strip....... My Dad saw this in the sunday paper and had to send it on to me. You see, Cody dropped his phone in THE TOILET. What person leaves his phone hanging on his pants or talks/texts on the phone in the bathroom? Obviously my teen son.
He sheeplishly brings it to me.....eeeeeuuuuh. And I tell him the best chance at trying to salvage it is to: 1. wash it off before HAZMAT comes. 2. put it in a bag of rice (ancient chinese secret that helps draw out moisture). After following my instructions (IF ONLY he had listened to me in the first place about not hanging his phone by his pant waist) it did "kinda work" for a few months till his birthday came around and he got a new one.
Can I curse him now that he has a kid just like him?

Oh The Silly Traditions ..

2008-10-01T16:28:00.000-07:00

Oh the silly traditions we do in each of our families. I am sure many of you can name a few. In my family one of my favorites is the "butter on the nose when it is your birthday" tradition.

We celebrated Rians 19th Birthday last Sunday as a family. This will be his last birthday at home for a while since he leaves in a few weeks to the Philippines....for 2 years. So here is HIS "Butter on the nose" photo.

The tradition is said to have started with my Great Grandpa Harrington. It was passed down to my Tutu (grandma) and then down to my mother and then down to me. It, of course, brings the birthday boy or girl luck thru out the whole year. The birthday person is usually caught off guard by a sneeky family member who smears butter on their nose....All the while the recipient is praying that it has not gone up his or hers nose. It is important to note that the this can ONLY be done one time.

Booher Family Reunion in Kentucky 2008 slide show

2008-09-18T16:00:00.001-07:00

Floating down the Salt River

2008-09-13T09:04:00.000-07:00

The weather is still so amazing here right now. The water is still warm and the weather hot. Perfect for floating down the Salt River! One of my fun and crazy friends Kathy Gray suggested a float down the river........we all jumped on it. So five of us went- Myself, Kathy Gray, Kathy Rollender, Kelly Brienholt, Deneen Wilson and Monica Whiting. It took us around 2 1/2 hours. I thought it would be boring but we had a relaxing and fun time......good chats, funny pictures, beautiful scenery and good friends. There was no one else on the river which was awesome.....hmmm I wonder why?......oh yeah everyone is at school or work.

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Proud to be an American

2008-09-11T09:20:00.000-07:00

This morning Brock and I woke up and with memories of this day......the famous 9/11. Brock was on a run and I was getting the kids ready for school. The phone was ringing off the hook with family and friends worried that Brock had been flying...........fear of him being one of those lost in that act of violence. I turned on the tv and with shock tried to comprehend what I was seeing. Brock walked in the door to see tears streaming down my face. Only a few know how closely this event is for Brock and I. We do not talk about it nor do we care to.

What we do speak loudly about is how proud we are to be an American and that no one can take away those feelings......not even a terrorist.

Brock served 9 plus years in the military and we have true patriotism for this country. WE proudly served those years. And I say WE because when he went off on assignments, spent months away from me in Iraq, and hours away from me and the kids, I had no regrets. I only had pride. I am proud to be an American. How proud I am of Brock.

Brock recently made a post on our family website. I want to share it.......in his words.

"A friend of mine called me a couple of weeks ago and asked me to be the keynote speaker at his commissioning ceremony. He had finished his long training to be an officer in the AZ National Guard. Their original speaker was the Governor, but she backed out and they called me (I guess I was on the short list).

We went to the ceremony Sunday and it brought back many memories. I held back the tears as I looked at those young men and women in uniform that are willing to lay it all on the line for me and for you. My friend was the distinguished graduate and received a saber. Rylee asked if I got any awards when I was in, and I told her, yes, but nothing as cool as a saber.The speech was short and sweet, and since it went well, I have posted it below. It was an easy speech to give since I believed in the message.

'General Salazar, Distinguished Guests, Graduates of Class 48, Families, and Friends,I am humbled and honored to speak to you today.I read recently in an aviation trade journal that in the near future airline cockpits will be so automated and computerized that instead of two pilots, there will only be one pilot and a dog. The pilot’s job will be to monitor the aircraft and its systems. The dog’s job will be to bite the pilot if he tries to touch the controls.

We live in an increasingly technical world of computers, PDA’s, cell phones, and robots. (Even my mother owns 2 robots.) The modern battlefield with data links of live video, Night Vision Goggles, infrared guided weapons, GPS smart bombs, and unmanned aerial vehicles is driven and managed with increasing technology. However, technology, as good as it is, will not win wars. People win wars, …but only if properly led.

In the increasingly technical battlefield of today leadership is more important than ever. Why? Because the power entrusted to today’s soldier is greater than ever. The stakes are greater. The consequences are greater. The need for leadership is greater.

The Southwest Airline Flight Operation Manual states:Southwest Airlines Pilots are expected to contribute to the accomplishment of the department and Company missions through disciplined and professional application of flying skills; however, performance expectations go far beyond technical competence. Southwest Airlines Pilots are expected to think and lead.

Why would Southwest Airlines place such emphasis on thinking and leading if the job is so heavily automated? Because they understand that we are in the people business and people need leadership.As officers in the military you are in the people business and your primary task is leadership.

Technology can make your job easier. If properly used, technology can make you a more efficient and effective leader. However, I would argue that technology cannot replace leadership. It cannot replace leaders like you. You must lead.

In the first Gulf War, coalition forces faced a large and well equipped Iraqi Army and Air Force. According to intelligence reports Iraq had over 500 combat aircraft (the largest in the Middle East at the time) and a well equipped Soviet style air defense system. They had forty three divisions of almost 500,000 troops along the southern front. In terms of troop strength and equipment deployed they rivaled coalition troops. They appeared to be a formidable foe.

At the end of the first Gulf War, 42 of the divisions were rendered ineffective, and over seventy thousand Iraqi prisoners of war were captured. Over three fourths of their tanks, artillery, and other armored vehicles were destroyed. Over 42 aircraft were destroyed in air to air engagements and 137 aircraft fled to Iran. I have a group photo of Iraqi fighter-pilot heroes from the first Gulf War. (bland piece of paper)

If troop strengths and equipment tallies before the conflict were comparable, what made the difference? Leadership! From Gen Colin Powell and Gen Schwarzkopf right on down to Platoon leaders and Flight Commanders, coalition troops were better led. Technology can never replace leadership. It can never replace leaders like you. You must lead.

I deployed to Incirlik, Turkey in July of 1991 as an A-10 pilot in the 78th Fighter Squadron. The operation was named Provide Comfort and our task was to patrol a no-fly zone in northern Iraq and give some relief to the battered Kurds who had been attacked and displaced by Sadam Hussein and his remaining forces.

It was a politically convoluted situation. President George Bush Sr. had stated that he did not want us involved in the conflict, but felt compelled. The top brass of NATO had expressed the same view. On some days we would air refuel from an airborne tanker (like a big gas station in the sky) that was also giving gas to Turkish airplanes, only we were protecting the Kurds in northern Iraq, and they were bombing Kurds in southern Turkey. The situation left a young idealistic Lt, like me, feeling like the whole operation was a waste.

In that moment of doubt it wasn’t the awesome firepower of the A-10, or the magnificent capabilities of the IR maverick missile that inspired me. It wasn’t the top brass mired down in the difficult political situation, or my Squadron Commander, a very effective manager, who inspired me. It was my Flight Commander, Captain Brian B. P. Pratt, and my Ops Commander Lt Col Dave Dill (Dill Pickle) who inspired me and kept me going with their leadership.

One day you may also find yourself fighting in a similar convoluted situation. The fog of war or a messy political situation may leave you or your troops uninspired. In that moment, your troops will not look for guidance and inspiration from “technology managers”. They will not look for leadership from some amazing new piece of technical weaponry. They will look for someone to give them true leadership and inspiration. When they need that leadership, will you be there to provide it?

After the victories of Trenton and Princeton, George Washington wrote, “A people unused to restraint must be led, they will not be drove.” Washington, although a strict disciplinarian and a stickler for details, lit the fires of patriotism and sacrifice in the hearts of his troops. People, particularly volunteers in today’s military, need leadership.

Can a computer inspire people? Can a machine motivate? Can Night Vision Goggles or an infrared sensor cause someone to risk their life for a cause? Can precision guided munitions light the fires of patriotism and sacrifice in a soldier’s heart?

Leadership, that magical stuff that motivates people to endure personal sacrifice and risk life and limb, requires the human touch. Strive to inspire, motivate, and give troops under your care a reason to risk their life even if that reason is nothing more than love for their unit and its members. You can light those fires of patriotism and sacrifice that will burn in the pages of history.

Today you are commissioned as an officer in the military. Your primary duties, like a captain at Southwest Airlines, are to think and lead. Technology can never replace leadership. It can never replace leaders like you. You must lead.I challenge you to be leaders. I urge you to be leaders. For the good of your unit; For the good of your state; For the good of your country – lead on!"

A great day at the lake!

2008-08-23T13:20:00.001-07:00

Last week Brock, Rian, My dad and I decided to go to the lake while everyone else was at school or at work. The other kids were so bummed because they had to go to school....but at least we gave them a ride in the back of the boat. They pleaded to go with us. I have to say that I found much joy on that lake with out a ton of boats and other people on it.

This is dad in the boat making sure that everyone is safe and does not try to hide some where and be a stowaway!

Living in Arizona has it's advantages in the Fall. The weather is still warm and the water is so enjoyable. Brock had some really good wake boarding. But of course when he did his best jump was when we were all staring at the eagle that was flying over us. I did get some good photos of it tho!

Dad still has it at 67! He can surf with the best of us. I am really enjoying this sport. It is low impact when you fall and you still have a challenge to stay on and to keep up with the wave. Brock has gotten the wave at a great size and so we can go for a while with out holding on to a rope.

Brock wiped out!

Then of course Rian and I get our cheap thrills off of jumping off the back of the boat while going real fast! We had such a fun time doing this over and over again. Brock finally thought we had enough photos of us doing this so we stopped. lol

Rian trying to get in his fill of wakeboarding before he leaves on his mission.

A great Example of Environmental Hysteria.....

2008-08-12T16:06:00.000-07:00

I think my sister in law (Kory) will enjoy this the most.... I have always gotten a kick out of people thinking they are educated on a subject and then doing something really stupid. Enjoy this link.

Cruising in the Bahamas

2008-07-29T21:01:00.000-07:00

Kathy, Monica and Me

I have to admit it was not one of our favorite family vacations together. But we had some great times on this trip. We traveled with three other families.....the Whitings, Grays and Brienholts. We all have children around the same age and so it was a blast to hang out with each other. We did a 5 day cruise thru the Bahamas, traveling to Nassau then to Coco Cay (the private island) and then to Key West. Nassau was our favorite day. We went to the well known resort- Atlantis. The sea life there is amazing. We spent every minute in the sun riding the water slides.

Brock and Carson racing down the slide.

The food was crazy good on the cruise and we took full advantage of it. Every night we would get together in the dining room to talk about the day.

Brock and I

Me and My Boys- Rian, Me, Cody and Carson

Booher Family Reunion in Kentucky 2008

2008-07-29T19:29:00.000-07:00

Every two years we get together as a family on the Booher farm in Kentucky. It has been a great reunion every year.

At first it was over whelming to me to enter thru marriage into a family with 10 siblings. My family was quiet and small with my brother and I being the only children. Now all of Brocks siblings are married and have children. It has been a great experience for me to be part of such a LARGE and wonderful family.

On the farm the kids are able to run free and explore. The little ones delight in getting dirty and wet. Skeeter has a small fountain that she lets the kids play and get wet in. Going back to Kentucky is like going into a story book with all those wonderful old fashioned descriptions of what it was like to be a child.

The reunions are never exempt from work. The word Work and Booher are just the same. I have noticed that everyone of the Booher kids know how to work and work hard. This year we put fence posts up, poured cement, piled up scrap lumber, fixed electrical and plumbing. And everyone is working side by side getting to know each other better and catch up on each others lives.

The favorite activity of the older children is riding "useless" the golf cart. The big highlight is for Grandpa Ed to give them their "Useless Drivers license". This allows them to drive Useless themselves. They show it with pride. The dogs have gotten smart over the years and have always hitched a ride with the kids.

The "big kids" look forward to always having the fireworks display. I have to say we get the best seat in the house and the boys do a fabulous job at it.

Some other activities we did together where going on the homemade slip and slide, going to the public pool, having Slurpee's anytime we wanted, making hula hoops, horseback riding, swinging from the trees, bubbles, shrinky dinks, the sand box, the tight rope, jumping thru the hoop, family skits and family story telling. Such great memories we will all have together. It makes you leave and be so proud of being part of such a great family.

Rylee going down the slip and slide ..........

Carson trying to do 5 hula hoops. He got actually really good at hula hoop tricks.

Am I really that old?

2008-07-29T17:45:00.000-07:00

Cody "surprised" at his 16th birthday party!

Cody just turned 16 years old. Time has passed way to quickly. I never felt old.....I seem to have been stuck in my 20's But now with Rian leaving on a mission and Cody turning 16, I am analyzing how old I really am. 42 years old does not seem that bad until I remember when I was 16 and what 42 yr olds looked and acted like. Really .......they were old.

I remember when my parents had my uncles 40th birthday party. He was so old that they had everyone dressed in black and a casket in the front yard.

I have always thought that"old" was part of your mind set.

I just asked Rian, "Do you think I am old?"

"No", he responds. I can tell he thinks I am crazy for asking that question.

So I ask again, "Seriously do you think I am old?"

"No" This time with a funny look on his face.

He is either really smart and wants to keep his car privileges or he really does not think I am old.

Man that makes me feel good!

Rian Gets his Mission Call!

2008-07-19T21:02:00.000-07:00

We just returned from a great 2 week vacation. I will post some great photos and fun thoughts later....All that is on my mind is Rian's Exciting news!

We arrived home last night to have waiting for us a letter from the church having Rian's Mission papers. After unloading the luggage and giving Rian some breathing room he finally opened it. It was just him and I in my office (Brock was driving another vehicle and not home yet). The look on his face was priceless. He looked up at me and said 'Mom where in the world is this! ".

He is going to The Quezon City, Phillipines Mission. He will be speaking Tagalog. Way cool.

My grandparents lived their. my father was baptized there, and my aunt was born there. The Filipino people have a specail place in my Grandfathers heart.

This will be a great adventure for Rian!

Here is a photo right after he found out and he was phoning someone to tell them....

Celebrity Collage by MyHeritage

2008-07-04T08:41:00.001-07:00

MyHeritage: Celebrity Collage - Free family tree - Family pictures

Wow he/she looks just like you!

2008-07-01T22:04:00.000-07:00

This program was so fun. Of course I had to put all the kids in to see who the computer thought looked more like me or Brock. So many times you hear how your child looks like you or your spouse. ......... so I put technology to the test.

Booher Look-alike Meter

2008-07-01T21:47:00.001-07:00

MyHeritage: Look-alike Meter - Family history software - Family tree form

Booher Look-alike Meter

2008-07-01T21:44:00.001-07:00

MyHeritage: Family trees - Genealogy - Celebs - Collage - Morph

Booher Look-alike Meter

2008-07-01T21:41:00.001-07:00

MyHeritage: Family tree - Genealogy - Celeb - Collage - Morph

Celebrity Morph by MyHeritage

2008-07-01T21:27:00.001-07:00

MyHeritage: Family trees - Genealogy - Celebrities

Getting ready to Cruise.

2008-07-01T18:26:00.001-07:00

I finally have the time to sit down and post a few things today.....as you can tell by the posts. My older son Rian is really skilled with Photoshop. He put together an incredible t-shirt design for the cruise we will be going on as a family and with 3 other familes that our friends of ours. He took the sillouette of him and Larissa Whitting and added it to the design he did. Pretty cool. We are going to be the coolest looking families on the ship! As usual I am into the stuff to get ready for the trip ......and no I still have not packed! lol

Cody the Cook

2008-07-01T10:56:00.000-07:00

My son Cody has loved to cook. He will make the best husband......who doesn't love a man that cooks? Yesterday he opened up the cook book and wanted to make Deneen Wilson's homemade oreo cookies. These cookies are addicting and loaded with calories. Here is the finished Product....made by Cook Cody all by himself!

A blast back to the 80's

2008-06-30T16:54:00.000-07:00

This was the concert we had been waiting for for a few months...... STYX! It is one of Brock's favorite groups. I have to admit their songs are filled with memories. They are fantastic songs to sing along to. Alan got the most fantastic seats for all of us. His best childhood buddy Del was putting on the concert and so we were able to get tickets before they went on sale. There was 42 of us total that went. I do not know what I enjoyed most...... singing to their songs or watching everyone else singing and jamming to their songs. It was a blast fromt he past. Poor Brock was supposed to get home from flying at 1pm and he did not land until 7:30pm. (They added a few flights onto his schedule) He went straight from the airport to the concert. He made it right after the concert started. Just in time for his favorite songs!

Below is a photo of Nicole (Jen's good friend), my sister in-law Jen, me and Holly Talbot taking a rest in between Styx and Boston. I have to say that Boston was good but not as great as Styx.

Before we went to the concert we went to Roy's for dinner. (imagine that...going to my favorite restuarant) Gary (the manager) set us up in the banquet room and had the chef arrange a special menu for us. The Macademia Mahi Mahi was Killer and is always my favorite but many raved about the ribs. The chocolate souffle was a hit. So here is a photo of everyone enjoying their meals. We have such awesome friends to hang out with .....what a blessing.

Table one..................................................................and Table two!

My two great neighbors-------My sister in spirit and friend for life Deneen Wilson, Me, and my friend Lori Bond. They are the best neighbors and friends. Always willing to have some fun.
My fun brother Jared and my adorable sister in-law Jen are always a blast to do things with. Jared is a music nut and they pretty much know every song out there. It has been great having them live in the same state. We are able to have some fun memories together.

The things that keep us entertained!

2008-06-26T20:05:00.000-07:00

Rian got a new camera for graduation from my parents.....it is not just an ordinary camera. This camera will not shatter, can be frozen, put in water up to 10 feet, buried in sand and NOT have any damage done. I have told Rian that he is not allowed to put the companies claims to the test! This will make a great camera for his mission.

We went up to my brothers house to test out his new swimming pool and Rian brought his camera with him. It kept us entertained for hours. Enjoy the funny photos!

Rian looking fine
Kati jumping in the pool and catching the football!
Rylee catching the football.
Kati and Rylee
Carson and Brock holding on to me because my eyes were closed. (I did not want to lose my contacts!)

Cody looking sooooo attractive!

My nephew and Niece.

Brock, Rylee and Me

Summer is here....

2008-06-05T19:28:00.000-07:00

My mom keeping cool under her umbrella. Rylee holding on to Micheal.

Our little buddy Micheal analizing the goose.

The baby ducks.....so cute.

my niece Sophie

Yesterday my niece sophie came down to spend the weekend with my parents. I had some friends of ours, the Glaziers, 3 yr old for the day while they packed up their home to move to Utah. Mom had a great idea to take an adventure to the Bird Riparian in Gilbert. We made the mistake of going at 1pm......it was hot! We saw ducks and geese cooling off in the ponds....but that was about it. Mom wondered where the birds were. Well they were smarter than us. They were staying out of the heat!!!!

We stoped by the pond and fed the ducks for a while and absoluetly thrilled a newspaper photographer. She was sent out on an assignment to photograph for an article on the local parks in Gilbert. She was afraid that no one was going to be out in the heat. She had fun taking a ton of photos of the kids. Maybe we will be famous and be in the Tribune newspaper this weekend.

The book I just made Rian for Graduation.

2008-06-03T21:00:00.001-07:00

I can not believe I have a son that just graduated.......I made this book for him for him to remember the years he has had with me. I have reflected alot as a mother on what his future holds for him. I know that he has been taught right. I know he will make a difference for good in this world.

A bit of May.......

2008-05-30T11:47:00.000-07:00

May is an awesome month.....yep May 1st is Lei day in Hawaii, Mothers day is in May, my oldest son Rian graduated, my youngest son turned 12 on May 15th and My moms and my birthday is in May. So It has to be a great month. I know a lot of great people born in may......Are YOU one of them? If you are then tell me one thing great!

The photo I posted is of Brock, myself and my mom and dad. The guys decided to take mom and I out for Dinner for our birthdays! I have to say they ROCK for this. Roy's is my favorite restaurant. They have the best food from Hawaii. I reccomend the Mahi Mahi with macadamia nuts and then the chocolate souffle (what ever the spelling). It was a wonderful evening in May.

A girls trip...

2008-05-05T17:52:00.000-07:00

Since my trip to Hawaii was cancelled last minute, thanks to ATA going bankrupt, Brock thought of a great idea of going on a cruise. He knew how disappointed I was not being able to go to Liana's wedding. 'Totally Awesome!" I said after he called me on my cell phone. He arranged for me and 3 of my friends to go to the Bahamas for 4 days. We got a killer deal.

We had little over a week to get things arranged. The night before I was still busy making matching tshirts(see the logo to the left) and matching bags, coin purses and luggage tags! Our "Chicks" looked fabalous and so did we. Brock thought we were nuts since I was busy with the matching garb and not packing my bags......No biggy our plane was leaving in 8 hours. I can pack what I remember and what I forget I can buy on the trip....This is every woman's thoughts right?

The trip was a sucess with lots of funny stories and memories. I want to do it again .....so I will try to plan ahead on the "cute" stuff so I can be packed in time. NAH....I probally will be packing last minute again.

"Chick Trip 2009" Here we come....Anyone willing to join me?

The Heart and Emerson Drive Concert

2008-02-15T20:34:00.000-08:00

David Pichette (fiddler )- Check out that smile!
Me with the whole band of Emerson Drive! Talk about a "Moment".

Nancy and Ann Wilson from the incredible group "HEART". The concert was amazing with Emerson Drive kicking off the evening. Then the Wilson women came on stage....... To see Ann Wilson play the guitar is inspiring. Nancy Wilson can still sing her heart out(no pun intended). Dang the 70's and 80's had great music!!!!! My Aunt Kathy, thanks to the fabalous Dell and Alan, got to meet them up close and personal. This was a special moment for her.....They were the "IT" group for her and her hubby. My sweet....yes I said sweet.......brother flew her down for the concert event because he rememered how much she loved Heart. Pretty Cool!

My new adventure in Blogging

2008-02-15T18:02:00.000-08:00

Yes! I have now entered into the new realm of blogging. Thanks to my sister in law Kory and my friends who have blogs.......
I figured I would contribute to the opionions of the world. Maybe something positive will come out of it. Yep I feel I can contribute. After 41 years of being alive so far, 20 years of marriage, 6 children, living in many places domestically and internationally, and all the cool people who have contributed to my life.......... I must know a little of something. And a little I will make it clear it is. I long to learn more.

Our family trip Hawaii

2008-02-15T17:58:00.001-08:00