The Snatch....

The snatch... all dad was left holding was the wrapper.

Well first it was.... what the heck.... Then it was pretty much a look of pride.... that's my boy.

You can tell he's pretty much lovin' it. (Sweet pic of Jake too)

The final outcome... now look at that face... dad had to give in.

ps... it's really 5:27 a.m., just another day in paradise.
I don't know why it always posts 2 hrs early.

Kearney's Beautiful Sunset!

What a gorgeous sunset we had this evening. Loved it...We won't have a new blogs until we get back from our family vacation. bye for now....

If the Savior Stood Beside Me....

The Kearney Third Ward Youth Choir sang "If the Savior Stood Beside Me" in sacrament today.... This is a voluntary choir that meets every Sunday after church for 1/2 hour. They were asked to come up with a special musical number for this week four weeks ago. Why? Because we were having Stake President Lehnardt speak. With just four short weeks to come up with a special musical number, you might think this would be a difficult task... not so. Every week the choir grew and grew. In fact a few friends from Kearney First Ward joined as well. What started as an idea... a Youth Choir, wouldn't that be nice.... became a mission, if you will.... in fact word spread throughout the stake of a great Youth Choir and the missionary tool it could become. They had not yet sung one note, but word had spread.

Well let me say... when 50+ young men and women voluntarily join in song... hearts are turned. Sacrament started with a beautiful talk on service by Sister Belcher. She spoke of the importance of service, particularly - building maintenance. During her talk other than a few small children's squeals and such... it was quite nice. Then the Youth stood in mass and began to sing... a hush fell over all of sacrament. I testify, that when they began to sing, all noise ceased and true peace fell over the congregation, the words of the song touched the hearts of all present. This is what song can do! President Lehnardt had tears in his eyes when he stood to speak and was quite choked up. He said he wished he had been able to see the faces of the youth, but he new he heard the sounds of angels!

IF THE SAVIOR STOOD BESIDE ME...

If the Savior stood beside me, would I do the things I do?
Would I think of his commandments, and try harder to be true?
Would I follow his example? Would I live more righteously?
If I could see the Savior standing nigh, watching over me?

If the Saviour stood beside me, would I say the things I say?
Would my words be true and kind if he were never far away?
Would I try to share the gospel? Would I speak more reverently?
If I could see the Savior standing nigh, Watching over me?

He is always near me, though I do not see him there,
And because he love me dearly, I am in his watchful care,
So I'll be the kind of person, that I know I'd like to be,
If I could see the Savior standing nigh, Watching over me.

I'll be the kind of person, that I know I'd like to be,
If I could see the Savior standing nigh, Watching Over Me!

~ Sally DeFord

Thank you to the Kearney 3rd Ward Youth Choir, for setting the tone for the rest of the day. Thank you for your willingness to be a missionary through song. It was truly glorious and brought tears to my eyes and spoke to my heart. If we but follow the lyrics of the song, and truly ask ourselves "If the Savior stood beside me, would I do the things I do?" If this was in our thoughts before we took actions, or spoke harshly, think of the change that could come. I pray that I can learn to take this song to heart and instill it in my life.

Old Photos and Good Memories....

I couldn't resist adding these last shots. Misty sledding on her daddy's back... good times... and tracking through the snow. She was so dang cute!... and such a good girl. (Notice Misty's sunglasses... yes even at this early age she was loaded with style) Isn't it great to go through old photos.... I have had such a good time!! Thanks for bearing with me.

Fun Summer Memories...

So for as far back as I can remember, Wendy and Joey always brought their family out to Missouri over the 4th of July Holiday. This is the whole he ha gang. What great fun we have had over the years... Thank you Wendy and Joey for making this possible.

Let's see starting in the back row... right to left.... Hyrum, Misty, Lacy, Jeni (holding Charlie), John...front row, Alex, CareBear (behind Alex), DeDe, J.B., Zach, and last but certainly not least, Jade. I think I got them all right. What a great group of kids... and what fun it has been to see them grow up and progress. I love them each and everyone! Yeah for family vacations!!

Oh...Memories...

So I think how this story goes is...Nimble Zach hoisted Willing Alex into the dryer....

Then proceeded to climb in himself... now all was hunky dory... until.... Zach decided to shut the door... That is when I heard the yelling and ran to discover this... Had to grab a picture before I took the boys out.... at least this time it was only the dryer... oh... memories! Aren't they cute? I sure think so.

I was looking at some old photos.....

So in December of 2001, Misty and I were privileged to get to visit Momma, while she was serving her mission in Salt Lake. Momma lived a block from Temple Square. Can you imagine? We loved it. Here are a few pictures that we took while walking around Temple Square. It was all dressed up for Christmas and absolutely glorious!

Here is a sweet picture of Misty and Momma. It was so cold and snowing, but we had a wonderful time. I especially love this shot with the tree behind Momma and Misty. Every branch was wrapped in lights. Can you imagine the hours of dedication that went into this glorious display. Everywhere we looked was even more beautiful then the last. And momma got to see it every day. She loved her mission and planned to serve again. I cherish these memories and miss my sweet momma. Are you ever too old to miss your momma... I don't think so.

Now I have to take my entire family to Salt Lake for Christmas... Yes, that is my plan.

What a week, with back to school....

The boys started school on Monday. Zach is in 10th grade this year and is already going round the clock it seems. Along with the start of school, Zach joined the high school swim team. He is pretty much lovin' it... and considering he has never been on a swim team or ever had any formal swim lessons, he is doing pretty good. He decided he needed to go out for swim to stay in shape for track. Little did he know.... Swim practices... way more work...he he he.... He's loving it anyway. In addition to swim team, he is also in the chamber choir.... which has a whole nother set of extra requirements.... plays.... contests.... solos... districts... you name it... and they have to do it. Did I mention.... a Play... starting on Sept. 5th... Then he started Seminary on Thursday... and besides a little whining that he couldn't believe I was really making Seminary attendance a requirement of his getting his drivers license... he is doing that as well. This means his day starts at 5:30 a.m., Mom lets him sleep in... if he can jump in his clothes in 15 min... so far it has worked, and ends at close to 9:00 p.m. starting on Sept. 5th.... yick! Good thing he doesn't require a lot of sleep. He must take after his pappasan.

Then we have my Alex. He started 8th grade this year. Seems to be jumping right in... Doesn't have any complaints about his classes or teachers.... yeah! Alex went out for football this year... I'm not sure it was his idea... I pretty much think dad signed him up for it without asking him... wants him to stay active. Alex is a way good sport. luckily he seems to be enjoying himself so far... first week and all. He had a good laugh when they were handing out the football gear... The coach handed him the helmet for the 8th grade players.... lets just say Alex although slim... is not what you would call normal size for an 8th grader. (already 6 feet tall, he's my manchild) The helmet didn't even come close to going on his head, stuck above his ears =0) .... He said the coaches had a good laugh and then told him we'll have to fix you up with a high schoolers helmet. Then they proceeded to put Alex in as a defensive lineman. Tickled him to pieces... all he has to do is stop forward progress... yeah thats all... no big deal.... He comes home tired, happy, and pretty much starving every night. Yeah for back to school!

Well we made it through this first of many weeks and I can only hope that the rest go as smooth as this. Bye for now... no pictures today... BJ has my camera.... Hmmmmm.... hate that.

Watkins Woolen Mill State Park

Here are a few more pictures from Brent's and my drive this afternoon.

I thought the light shining through this tree was lovely. It had rained for a bit before our drive. The air was soft and cool. However, it didn't stay that way for long.

Watkin's Mill Randomness

Brent and I went for a drive to Watkin's Mill. It was lovely. Here are a few random pictures.

Whenever I feel the rain on my face...

Everyone needs a place to relax. It can be different for each of us. Mine happens to be the hammock in my back yard. I went out this evening to see how the camera would do on a few evening shots. Next thing I knew, I was laying on the hammock enjoying the gentle touch of the rain on my face. It's funny how certain things can bring a song to my mind. "Whenever I hear the song of a bird or look at the blue blue sky, Whenever I feel the rain on my face or the wind as it rushes by, Whenever I touch a velvet rose or walk by our lilac tree, I'm glad that I live in this beautiful world Heavenly Father created for me." That is how I feel. I wish I could write better lyrics of my own, but how can you improve on a simple truth. We have so very much to be thankful for. So many things that can bring us joy, if we but reach for them. Thank you to my family for all your support over the last several days. Sorry you had to put up with my grumpiness, I will try to do better.

Playing with Picasa

I love Picasa and all the fun I have with my photos.
Thank you Misty for getting me started. I am truly lovin' it.

Love My Ozzie Kitty

Ozzie makes a pretty, pretty model for a few shots. She was stocking something in the flower bed. Not sure what, because she decided to go for a fish or two in the little pond. I love my Ozzie Kitty.

Saturday Morning

Here is a few shots of my Saturday morning walk around the yard. I think they made a rather nice collage. Fun, Fun! All the animals had to be included. Even the crazy neighbor dog that we cannot convince doesn't live with us. I wish I had gotten the shot of Ozzie whipping his bum. Pretty funny, but too quick for me. All in all it was a beautiful cool morning. Great for a stroll and a few pictures. Made a nice change from laying around waiting for my blood pressure to drop into a reasonable zone. Way better to be walking out side. Yeah for me.

Gideon Loves Satin

What is it about satin or silky things and babies? I have a new silky satin blouse, every time I wear it, Gid chews on the collar. So I decided.... hmmm.... I think he needs something of his own. He pretty much loved it. Carried it around for quite a while and kept himself entertained. He is so fun... and the colors in the scarf brings out his eyes... he he he.

So Sarah Inspired Me....

So Miss Sarah inspired me... Here is a lovely shot of "Sunrise Over the Richardson Abode". All I can say is.... how can you look at this and not be humbled by all the infinite glories our Lord has given us. Just think... we will be able to inherit worlds without end. Pretty Awesome!

Al Doan is pretty much amazing!

Al Doan is pretty much amazing! Well at least when it comes to computers anyway. He came over to the house and made it possible for everyone to be signed on to a network and the internet at the same time. No more people...did I say Jake and Misty or Zach.... I don't think so... steeling my highspeed anymore.... Yeah....AL IS GREAT! YEAH FOR AL!!!

Looking Back

Change....Hair, body shape, life... We've come a long way. Don't laugh too hard or long at the old photo (you might pull your milk muscle as BJ says)... gotta love the glasses though... I'm pretty sure I am wearing on old pair of Brent's because I broke mine. That's my story and I'm sticking to it. The photo of Brent and I dancing was taken right before Misty and Jake's wedding while we were going to ballroom dance lessons. Can't wait for them to start up again in January.... We will so be there. Yeah for dance lessons... so much fun! Isn't it great that Brent will do that with me... I sure think so. Oh so they had a debate on the Gregg and BJ show last week... Does it matter if your guy knows how to dance or is it just great that he still will dance with you... I say any dancing is great.... the knowing how is just a little side benefit.

I Think the World is Glorious and Lovely as Can Be...

I am drawn to our empty pond and the sounds of nature that resonate through the trees that surround what were its banks. (See main photo at top of blog) I have attempted on numerous occasions to persuade Brent and the children to walk down to pond bottom with me and listen to the chorus of nature. The rest of the family seem to think I'm crazy. Maybe so, but the sound of the wind rippling through the leaves and the meadow grasses is glorious. The sounds of the bullfrogs, tree frogs, and cicadas. How can such tiny creatures produce such a chorus? It is truly music to my ears and brings such a sense of peace. It's as if a symphony arises each evening in my own back yard. Just another example of the divine nature of the creation of our world. No man can replicate exactly the sounds of nature. Many have attempted, but I have yet to hear the same music that our creator has produced.

Because no one will join me but my little dogs, that is who is pictured here. Zoe, Dueter, Boo, and I went for a walk. My constant companions, much like the Holy Ghost. All I have to be is willing, open, and invite them along and swiftly they are by my side. Isn't it wonderful!?! I enjoy seeing their love of nature as well. I wish I could capture their joy as they leaped, frolicked, and chased the dragonflies, crickets, and frogs. They make me happy!

On a side note, don't you just love the picture of Zoe in the midst of my ornamental potato vines. She made herself a little bed and I just couldn't fuss, it made such a pretty picture. Dueter and Boo's pictures did not turn out so although they were present, no pictures of them at this time. (not that anyone but me really cares.)

Kearney 3rd Ward Girls Rock!

Last night the Kearney 3rd Ward YW attempted an all night reading of the Book of Mormon. Our spirits were certainly willing, but our bodies were weak. We had a wonderful uplifting experience interspersed with moments of silliness. We made it until 1:30 a.m. reading strong until the giggles of sleepiness overtook the spirit. The girls started dropping off by twos and threes. Occasionally even a leader nodded off. I know that is hard to believe, but it is true. We had Annie, Jenni, Tessa, Brittney, Tifanni, Mignonne, Sarah, Samantha, Cassadi, and Kylie (forgive any misspelled names and the lack of last names) that stayed the night through with Sister Rogers, Sister Duncan and I. We said we would give a Moroni award to any girls that made it all night through. Tessa, Brittney, Sarah, Annie, and Kylie...way to go... You ROCK!! We were so happy that the lovely Clewell sisters, Mehgan and Emily, were here for most of the evenings readings. I want to express my deep love and appreciation for each one of these sweet girls. It was so unbelievable to see the spirit grow as the evening went along. As we completed the First book of Nephi, the spirit was oh so strong. We know that our Father in Heaven; our beloved brother, Jesus Christ; and the Holy Ghost were with us and were pleased with the intent of our hearts. I was so proud of the young women for following along and taking over when their names were called to read. I cherish the evening and plan to continue this weekend in my quest to complete the Book of Mormon. I challenge our young women and each of you to do the same. The Book of Mormon is true, I am humbled at the opportunity to learn and grow from reading and studying the words of these great prophets of old.

I would be remiss if I failed to thank my sweet Brenton for all his help. He shopped with me for the dinner, he remained in the home as our priesthood holder and then woke early to make pancakes for all of us. Thank you for all your support. I love you! ~ Kimberly

Ode to BJ

BJ is my special guy!
I tell you true, I would not lie.

He’s kinda sweet, he’s really neat!
Don’t even mind his stinky feet.

When we were just young pups, it’s true!
My love for him, it grew and grew!

He shops, he cleans, he cooks…oh my!
He’s smart, he’s funny, he’s quite the guy!

I know your wondering, but I don’t share!
It might be mean, but I don’t care!

I Love You Sweetie! ~ Kimberly

YW's Slumber Party Night!

So I haven't updated in a while and I am feeling a bit guilty because I am always fussing at my sis and Misty for being slow... so here goes. Tonight is the big night of the YW's slumber party at my house. I think we should have a great turn out based on comments on Sunday. We hope to read the entire Book of Mormon. We will get started around 3pm and will go until the girls and the leaders pass out.... pretty funny.... I know this can be done. Both of my sisters have shared their experiences with the special spirit that was present when their wards did this. On our invites to the young women it said "Start your school year off with 'The Full Armor of God'. We are pretty excited to see how it works. We will see how long everyone makes it, but it will be wonderful no matter what. I will post some pictures and updates tomorrow. I am way!!!! excited!!!

My heart is full, I am so thankful for the opportunity I have been given to serve the lord in the young women's program of the church. I know that I will gain so much more from these wonderful young women than I can ever give back. I am truly thankful for the blessings that being a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints brings into my life, for our righteous leaders that were put on the earth to lead and guide us in these troubled times. I am thankful for the examples, love, and support of my family and friends and am humbled to have them be a part of my life. I know that the church is true and that we are led by latter day prophets, that the true and everlasting gospel has been restored. I am so excited to see the growth of the church and am so very thankful for the missionaries that brought the gospel to my mother, then later my father, and then ultimately me. I am humbled by the knowledge that our Savior loves each and every one of us and has suffered even unto death for us. That he knows me by name and has carried me through my most difficult trials. I hope that I might be an example and an instrument in his hands. That I might touch the lives of those I come in contact with. I am thankful for each of you and wish you all the best.

Your humble servant and friend, ~ Kimberly

Zach & Gideon at Play

We could tell at an early age...

We could tell at an early age that Zachary Ryan Richardson had a little something extra. Look at this attitude... Look at this style... Look at this unbelievably handsome baby. Yes my little Zach-man is growing up and when he sees this blog I may no longer have any fingers. Well maybe nothing quite so drastic... but I bet if he knew why I needed the help with the scanner... he wouldn't have been quite so helpful. I can't believe that it has been sixteen years since he was born.

I can remember so clearly the morning of his birth (Aug. 2, 1991). Brent and I were living in St. Joseph and I was going to my original O.B. in Kansas City. I was in pre-labor and my doctor asked me not to go back to St Joe because he didn't want me so far from the hospital. Lucky for us, we were able to stay with Brent's mom and dad in Liberty. Brent, aka...BJ Scott the super jock, got up early for work and went into the radio station. Misty and I were still at his mom and dad's house. I wake up and go down stairs to get something to drink and guess what... while standing on his mom's kitchen carpet... yep... my water breaks... only it wasn't only my water... I didn't realize there wasn't supposed to be all that red blood. (By the way... the carpet was never the same and Mom got hardwood floor out of the deal) He was kicking and moving so I was thinking cool. HERE HE COMES.... YEAH! That was until Sandy came down stairs and FREAKED OUT! I'm on the phone with the doc..."My water broke... I'm on my way to the hospital" and she screams!

Now you have to know that Sandy's house and car were always immaculate... she grabs Misty... a black trash bag to place on the powder blue cloth seats of her Cadillac and about twenty towels and out the door we fly. I'm not even sure she ever slowed down on the way to the hospital. We are calling Dad and Brent and my parents... I am still thinking everything is cool...cuz hey he's still moving... all must be fine... wasn't too worried about me. This is my third baby after all. I get to the hospital and all heck breaks loose. They are rushing me to an examining room and in walks my doc.... Kimberly we are going to have to take this baby C-section! "What!!! no... no... no... I want to have him normal like all the rest." "Well Ms. Richardson then you shouldn't have bled all over my floor!" So I sob..."You have to wait for Brent... he missed Misty's birth (well all except the afterbirth... but that is another story) and he can't possibly miss this one too!" Doctor Nagy says, "He has till they get you prepared for surgery and no longer." Brent is flyin'... I mean driving from St Joe...Dad and mom are hurrying from Kansas City... Brent's dad beats them all to the hospital and he was in Olathe at the time. Pretty much... speed limits were broken by all... and our guardian angels were watching over us. Everyone made it there in time.

Look at this attitude.... Look at this style... Look at my unbelievably handsome 16 year old son. Zachary, I love you and admire you. You bring me joy and you are worth every moment of fear that came with your exciting birth. HAPPY 16th BIRTHDAY!! ~ no worries yet on the highways... the drivers license is still a month or so off.