Cindy Payton Barlow

Discouraged!

2011-07-14T12:19:00.000-06:00

I have been tying really hard to loose weight and get in better shape. The getting in shape part is going well but the loosing weight seems hopeless. For weeks I have been stuck at the same weight. For all the work and counting calories I've been doing I expect more results. Maybe some day!

Life

2011-05-04T09:31:00.000-06:00

Well its been a while since I posted. Life is good! I have the most amazing children! They bring so much joy to my life. They have chosen wonderful partners and have produced the most amazing children. being a grandmother is the reward for making it through the teenage years.

Justin is an amazing computer programer and his wife Amanda has a wonderful way with words, Charity is so talented and intelligent, Everett tells the best jokes and his amile lights up the room and Jacob love to copy every little thing his siblings do, he watches them carefully.

Stephanie is so talented with hair and pretty much everything she touches and her husband Sal is such a blessing in her life, besides being an amazing cook and strong will power. Isaak has great comedic timing and can keep you laughing for hours, Makai is a busy body and loves to explore everything and the new baby when she arrives is going to fit right in to their little family and bring so much love to their lives.

Whitney is so artistic and creative and a great mother and her husband Matthew has such a zest for life and all it comprises. Juniper is the most anazing girly girl ant the most beautiful red head I have ever seen.

What more can I say? I have it good!!

We are all beautiful!!

2010-10-28T08:28:00.001-06:00

Days will come when you don't have the strength

When all you hear is you're not worth anything

Wondering if you ever could be loved

And if they truly saw your heart they'd see too much

You're beautiful

You're beautiful

You are made for so much more than all of this

You're beautiful

You're beautiful

You are treasured, You are sacred, You are His

You're beautiful

And praying that you have the heart to find

Cause you are more than what is hurting you tonight

For all the lies you've held inside so long

And they are nothing in the shadow of the cross

You're beautiful

You're beautiful

You are made for so much more than all of this

You're beautiful

You're beautiful

You are treasured, You are sacred, You are His

You're beautiful

Before you ever took a breath

Long before the world began

Of all the wonders He possessed

There was one more precious

Of all the earth and skies above

You're the one He madly loves enough to die

You're beautiful

You're beautiful

In His eyes

You're beautiful

You are made for so much more than all of this

You're beautiful

You are treasured, You are sacred, You are His

You're beautiful

You're beautiful

You are made for so much more than all of this

You're beautiful

You're beautiful

You are treasured, You are sacred, You are His

What Faith Can Do!

2010-10-27T12:04:00.000-06:00

Everybody falls sometimes

Gotta find the strength to rise

From the ashes and make a new beginning

Anyone can feel the ache

You think it’s more than you can take

But you are stronger, stronger than you know

Don’t you give up now

The sun will soon be shining

You gotta face the clouds

To find the silver lining

I’ve seen dreams that move the mountains

Hope that doesn’t ever end

Even when the sky is falling

And I’ve seen miracles just happen

Silent prayers get answered

Broken hearts become brand new

That’s what faith can do

It doesn’t matter what you’ve heard

Impossible is not a word

It’s just a reason for someone not to try

Everybody’s scared to death

When they decide to take that step

Out on the water

It’ll be alright

Life is so much more

Than what your eyes are seeing

You will find your way

If you keep believing

I’ve seen dreams that move the mountains

Hope that doesn’t ever end

Even when the sky is falling

And I’ve seen miracles just happen

Silent prayers get answered

Broken hearts become brand new

That’s what faith can do

Overcome the odds

You do have a chance

(That’s what faith can do)

When the world says you can’t

It’ll tell you that you can!

I’ve seen dreams that move the mountains

Hope that doesn’t ever end

Even when the sky is falling

And I’ve seen miracles just happen

Silent prayers get answered

Broken hearts become brand new

That’s what faith can do

That's what faith can do!

Even if you fall sometimes

You will have the strength to rise

Come to Jesus

2010-10-25T10:34:00.000-06:00

Some of my favorite lyrics!! Thanks Chris Rice!! Weak and wounded sinner,

Lost and left to die, O, raise your head for Love is passing by Come to Jesus,

Come to Jesus,Come to Jesus and live Now your burden's lifted,

And carried far away, And precious blood has washed away the stain... so

Sing to Jesus ,Sing to Jesus ,Sing to Jesus and liveAnd like a newborn baby,

Don't be afraid to crawl,And remember when you walk sometimes we fall... so

Fall on Jesus,Fall on Jesus, Fall on Jesus and liveSometimes the way is lonely,

And steep and filled with pain,So if your sky is dark and pours the rain... then

Cry to Jesus,Cry to Jesus,Cry to Jesus and live

O, and when the love splills over,And music fills the night,

And when you can't contain you joy inside... thenDance for Jesus,

Dance for Jesus,Dance for Jesus and liveAnd with your final heartbeat,

Kiss the world goodbye,Then go in peace, and laugh on Glory's side... and

Fly to Jesus,Fly to Jesus,Fly to Jesus and liveFly to Jesus,Fly to Jesus,

Fly to Jesus and live

Fall Post

2010-10-08T15:38:00.000-06:00

Well here it goes. My update...
I have started to play with the New Horizons Orchestra again this fall. I really love playing my viola. Just wish I could afford one that has a better sound. I'm the choir manager for the Wasatch Chorale. Right now I'm singing 2nd Soprano but I'm trying to work my way back to alto. I auditioned for some solo parts for our up coming concert on the 28th in the Covey Performing Arts Center, I don't know if I got the part yet. I will be singing with a small group of women on one of the songs.

I've started my spring cleaning. I guess you could say early, please! I have a lot of stuff going to DI Yeah!! I did some fall arrangements for a stake RS meeting for the general womens conference and liked them so much I made one for me. I took it to church last week and got lots of compliments. I've also dome 3 weedings. Small ones thank goodness.

I took a day trip with some of my single friends (Demion) to Huntsville. We had some really good Texas BBQ. Real Texans cooked it and everything. Brought back good food memories. We have also had some Texas sized thunderstoms lately. MY FAVORITE!!!

I have been really busy at work. So not much has changed there. I love my job!!! I'm so greatful for my job. Between work and babysitting grandchildren I also have been kareokeing alot. Not as much as before because we are going to some of the single dances again. Not much has changed at those.

Life

2010-08-30T16:33:00.000-06:00

Life keeps changing! Justin just moved to Austin and took my daughter amanda and my 3 grandchildren. I think he deserves a big spanking for that. I miss them so much! I'm glad he has found his dream job though. Love you all so much!!

Check this out!!

2010-06-24T14:18:00.002-06:00

http://heritagertc.blogspot.com/2010/06/heritage-garden.html

Great News!!

2010-03-18T14:34:00.002-06:00

You may now find my cards at The Busy Biddy 609W. 1600 N. Orem Ut.

Happy Birthday Whitney!

2010-03-11T15:14:00.000-07:00

I know this is early but I don't want to forget to tell you how much I love you! I hope you birthday is the most amazing one yet! Happy Birthday Pookie!

Happy Birthday!

2010-01-28T10:46:00.002-07:00

Happy birthday to Justin and Juniper!!!

New Year

2010-01-05T14:43:00.000-07:00

I'm so grateful for each new year that comes. That means I'm still alive and there is a new chance to become even better. May this year bring us all we desire.

Happy New Year!

2009-12-31T08:55:00.000-07:00

I can't believe another year has past. This year has been full of joy and sorrow. New grandchildren, great job, good health and wonderful friends. But there has been sorrow over the death of David and sad children. My wish is for a wonderful new start and lots of new and wonderful events that bring joy to life.

Thankful

2009-12-11T13:38:00.000-07:00

I am thankful for fantastic friends and fabulous family. What a blessing they are to me in my life!

Come see!

2009-12-07T21:44:00.000-07:00

I am having a card party in Provo Dec 10th from 7-9 at the clubhouse on 1787 W. 1010 N. Come and bring your friends.

BOUTIQUE

2009-11-24T10:17:00.002-07:00

I'm doing another boutique on November 27 and 28 in Spanish Fork at the Veterans Memorial Building on 389 N. Main St From 9-9 on Friday and 9-7 on Saturday. Come check out my new designs.

Cards

2009-11-06T14:00:00.002-07:00

Well people seem to like my cards. I went to dinner last night with some friends and they bought $50.00 worth of them. I need to make more.

I'm doing a boutique this Saturday in American Fork at 215 N. Center St. from 4-8PM and another one at Timpanogus Hosp. on The 10th and 11th from 9-5.

Thanks

2009-11-04T12:21:00.001-07:00

Thanks for you support at the Heritage Boutique. You may order you set of custom cards through vintageexpression.blogspot.com.

Boutique

2009-10-27T10:16:00.000-06:00

Boutique Boutique Boutique

Event: Heritage School's
Annual Boutique

Start Time:
Tuesday, November 3 at 10:00am

End Time:
Tuesday, November 3 at 5:00pm

Where: 5600 N. Heritage School Dr.
Provo, UT

Come check out all the fun
stuff that will be for sale, including my
Greeting Cards!

I've Moved

2009-10-05T13:23:00.001-06:00

My blog The Mind of an Old White Woman has moved to http://themindofawhitewoman.blogspot.com/ . Have fun
visiting this blog and feel free to leave comments. ENJOY!

Style Rookie

2009-09-25T15:11:00.000-06:00

Hey Whit checkout the new blog site I added. You will love it!

Happy

2009-09-23T11:03:00.003-06:00

I have to agree with Whitney...Music. What a cool invention! Music speaks to my spirit and keeps me grounded. Without it I'm not sure how crazy I would be.

David

2009-09-08T16:05:00.002-06:00

Last Wednesday I was informed that my ex-husband had passed away. I was deeply saddened at the loss. I always cared for and wanted the best for him. He struggled in this life and more so after our son Doug's passing. He will be missed by me and especially is children.

The funeral was Monday and the children did such a wonderful job of planning and executing the service. It was beautiful and the love that they had for their father shone throughout the service. I'm so amazed everyday at how wonderful my children are. There is nothing they can't accomplish in this life. They are strong and resilient and I am honored to be in their shadows. They inspire me to be a better person.

May you find peace David. Love, Cindy

Moved

2009-09-02T12:21:00.000-06:00

I have moved my mind of an old white woman blog. http://themindofawhitewoman.blogspot.com/ Thanks for following.

Who do you look like?

2009-09-02T10:16:00.003-06:00

My friend Sharon had this picture of me when I was younger. The more I look at it the more i see Douglas. by the way Happy Birthday Doug. I miss you so much.

Music

2009-08-12T12:49:00.002-06:00

Well, as the weeks go on I try to think of different thinks to be thankful for. My first thought is always family, then my job, my God and then I have to really think. So I guess this week it is my singing ability. I love to sing and some people even like to listen to me sing. Music is very important to me and very important to my soul.

The World of Crafting

2009-08-04T23:47:00.002-06:00

Check out my new Craft blog. I have entered the world of crafting along with my daughters. i hope to get better pictures of what I do soon. Thanks to Whitney for the header design. vintageexpressions.blogspot.com

Thankful

2009-08-04T12:10:00.003-06:00

Life is so wonderful! My family is so amazing. What more could one ask for? I'm thankful for my children and the choices and wonderful lives they lead.

Makai A. Sandoval

2009-07-30T10:41:00.002-06:00

Makai Is here! My 7th grandchild. He was born Monday, July 27th, 2009 at 3:21 pm. He was 7lb. 3 oz and 201/2 inches.

Thankful

2009-07-21T09:03:00.002-06:00

I'm thankful for food, garden and wonderful recipes. I'm not thankful for the way it shows how much I love it.

Thankful

2009-07-18T11:10:00.001-06:00

I'm thankful for grandchildren. They are so perfect and bring so much light and laughter into my world. What more could anyone ask for!

The Love of a Dog

2009-07-09T19:52:00.002-06:00

Today I gave my dog away to a family with 3 children who love dogs. I think this is on of the harder things I have done. This dog has been a real special dog to our family. My kids have all moved on with their lives and he needed more attention than I could give him. With this family he will have lots of attention and love.

His story:
After my son had died and my husband had decided that he no longer wanted to be a part of our lives I moved to Provo. When I arrived with my 2 daughters I found out that one of them was pregnant. My son had come to Provo to go to school. When my daughter had decided to place her daughter for adoption I became very worried about our mental health. We had experienced so much loss and I felt one more may push us over the edge. That is when I thought of getting a dog. I myself being more of a cat person made this a real stretch for me. We went to the pet store and there fell in love with a Dappled Dachshund puppy. We brought him home. The girls felt a little guilty for getting a cog because their brother who had died had always wanted one and never got one. So when it came time to name him they thought of their brothers favorite movie Gladiator and named him Maximus. He ended up being such a special dog. My daughter who was very angry was able to play with him ruff and he loved it and she felt loved. The other would spend hours in bed crying and he would lay by her side and lick her tears and she felt loved. I myself was so grateful for such an intuitive dog.

So today I bid a fond farewell to a dog who has so much love to give and has healed many hearts. And wish him and his new family the same kind of love and happiness. What a special dog.

Thankful

2009-07-06T10:22:00.001-06:00

I'm thankful for nature and for a God that provided sure a beautiful world so that all we had to do is enjoy and honor it.

The 4th of July

2009-07-06T10:20:00.000-06:00

I love same town celebrations. I was able to go to Monroe, Ut for the 4th. You have never seen more candy at a parade. The kids bring bags and by the end they are filled with treats and toys. We should go to Monroe for the 24th as a family for the parade and the fun in the park. Let me know if you are interested.

Give Away

2009-06-29T15:07:00.000-06:00

Check this out!! greenappleboutique.blogspot.com

Thankful

2009-06-10T13:45:00.001-06:00

I'm thankful for the cool weather we are having because I'm having those wonderful hot flashes.

Thankful

2009-06-03T16:48:00.002-06:00

Well it's Wednesday but I really was thankful on Tuesday! I'm thankful for a job. Not only having one in these tough times but loving what I do too. It has been very therapeutic for me to work here. I have learned a lot about myself and others. My life is so richly blessed.

Thankful

2009-05-26T10:20:00.001-06:00

I'm thankful for the joy mt grandchildren bring into my life. They help me feel young. I'm also grateful for the time I get to spend with my family even if it only a moment, it means the world to me!

Thankful

2009-05-19T09:02:00.001-06:00

I'm thankful that things happen in my life that cause me to slow down and look at my life. It's so amazing to me how there really are no accidents. Life is amazing!

Thankful

2009-05-12T15:37:00.003-06:00

I like this idea too. Whitney is such an inspiration to us all. So here it goes...I'm thankful for a wonderful family. Each of my children, their spouses and their children bless my life everyday. I can't think of them and not start to smile. I have been so blessed.

5K

2009-05-12T15:22:00.002-06:00

Well I did it again this year. And I took first place in my division. I'm not even sore. I wish I did this at least once a week. After I feel so full of energy. Well I won an ipod shuffle so my next task is trying to figure out how to use it.

Flowers Say it All

2009-05-10T11:34:00.002-06:00

Flowers that my brother gave to mom on mothersday! My sister gave her two of her favorite books to read and me well I got to deliver these wonderful gifts in person and see the smile they brought to moms face. They truely brightened her day! i have the best sibs!!!

Mother of the Year!

2009-05-10T11:29:00.001-06:00

Check this out!
http://news.cnnbcvideo.com/?nid=e6KLtF8UgBpy55Yk5tGMejI5MDc0MjY-&referred_by=4974628-DwaJpHx&p=moveon

What dessert am I?

2009-05-07T16:30:00.001-06:00

Jello
One of the most popular treats of all! Jello! This delicious wobbly snack tastes great after every meal! Breakfast, lunch, supper! The treat of the day!

Musical Leading lady

2009-05-07T16:24:00.000-06:00

Maria
(Sound of Music) You are a free spirit who loves life, God and the joys of music. You are good with children and enjoy the outdoors. You are a true beauteous soul who has a great affinity for family and freedom. Your soul is your voice and you sing as loud as the hills will allow.

Fashion Lable

2009-05-07T16:19:00.000-06:00

Louis Vuitton
you always look put together, wether its running to the coffeshop or strutting down a red carpet you always make heads turn and you thrive on the attention

Who I would be in a past life...

2009-05-07T16:15:00.001-06:00

Emeia Earhart or Howard Hughs
You were an intrepid adventurer with a love of life greater than anyone in your time. You spent your days contemplating the limits of normal life, pushing the boundaries, and seeking ways to transcend them. You’ve had your share of hardship, but you also succeeded in creating a legacy of spirit and determination that will live in history forever.

If I were a Star Trek Character I would be...

2009-05-07T16:13:00.000-06:00

SPOCK
You are a logical being who wants things to happen in correct order...a perfectionist of sorts...kind of like a walking encyclopedia. You are very knowledgeable and sometimes people don't get along with you because you come across as a know-it-all, but they do eventually come around to your logical way of thinking...logically speaking.

Aura

2009-05-04T16:56:00.001-06:00

I took a test and GREEN was my aura color.
Greens are balanced, harmonious, and peaceful personalities. They need harmony in their life and prefer to live in a natural environment. They are the most balanced people in the color spectrum. They also have a powerful connection with nature. Living in the country, next to a forest or park or close to a lake or ocean is important for these friendly and heartfelt personalities. Greens are open, extroverted, expressive, friendly, communicative and heartfelt. Greens perceive life through their heart. Their primary motivations are contentment and harmony. They judge their successes by how close they are to their friends or nature. Greens are content personalities. If they are in power and have found their place they need very little to be happy or feel needed. Their inner happiness and satisfaction is important to them and is fulfilled without much expectation.

Falcon Idol

2009-05-04T10:28:00.002-06:00

I was picked to be a judge for Falcon Idol. Canyon View Jr. High had their version of American Idol. I had a lot of fun. The other judges Clayne Robison and his wife, Kenton(who is assistant conductor of Wasatch Chorale, and Jenna who was last years vocal winner at UVU. How did I get picked. Two young men won. They were amazing. I hope to see them performing in the future.

Assignments That Work and Don’t Work

2009-05-01T10:18:00.002-06:00

This is my last entry for my portfolio. After this all I need to do is send in my application and money and I will receive my Level 2 teaching certificate. I'm so excited.

Piano
What works: In Piano class each Monday they work on learning a new concept in piano theory. When I do examples on the board together with the students before they start their book work; they have fewer questions and their understanding seems more complete. This is then reinforced with their quiz on Friday which has the same principles done just slightly different so the students fully grasp the concept.
What doesn’t work: They have a difficult time understanding their own ability level. They want to be able to play the songs they have heard others play before they have reached that skill level. When I have let them pick their own recital piece they tend to pick a piece that is far above their level. Thus I have to then talk them into a different piece with out hurting their ego. I did this once and will never do it again. I now pick the piece they will play and try to make it challenging so they feel a sense of accomplishment and not defeat.

Horticulture
What works: When we talk about nutrition we cover a unit called portion distortion. I give them a test where they are to guess the differences in portion from 20 years ago to today’s portions. When this is complete I then put them into teams. On the board I have the quiz with the answers hidden. They then get to conference with their team to come up with the correct answer. I have found that when the students are actively involved with learning they tend to pay attention more and learn more in the process.
What doesn’t work: We do a unit on companion gardening. I pass out information and they are to sort through it and make a plan for planting a garden using this concept. I usually divide them into groups for this activity. They tend to not really go through the information to make a good plan. They want me to give them all the answers. I have since changed they way this is taught. We do it while we are planting. This is a more hands on approach and they relate to and learn it better.

Careers
What works: I have found that alternative assessments work very well with this population of students. So in careers I do their mid-tern test as a Bingo game. We play it several times to reinforce the concepts learn so far. I usually use the definition and they have to find the term. This also lends itself to additional teaching on my part. I get a kind of assessment on my teaching skills also. This way I make sure all that I wanted the students to learn is covered.
What doesn’t work: I have found that having the student read independently and then discussing what they have read is not as effective as reading together and discussing as we go.

Personal Finance
What works: When we study the budget unit I usually divide the students into teams of two. Then they are given a page with items on it that together they need to decide haw they will spend their money. They are given tokens to place on the sheet to show how they would spend their money. We than talk about how important it is to have communication when working with money. I stress that everyone has different ideas as to what is important to spend money on and what isn’t. This usually leads to a great discussion.
What doesn’t work: In this class I have found that working together on assignments works the best. This is a concept that a lot of people don’t know a lot about or don’t want to know a lot about. So in this class we work together quite a bit.

Choir
What works: I have found that before we start to sing it is very helpful to learn some basic theory. One of the things we do is a rhythm circle game. Each student makes up a rhythm on a sheet of paper in 4/4 time. We then place the paper on the floor in front of us and move around in a circle clapping each others rhythms. We start out slow and gradually build up speed.
What doesn’t work: With singing songs they are not familiar with I have found that I need to teach rhythms within the song by breaking down the songs into smaller chunks. When I first started teaching I was used to working with student with a lot more experience then the ones I work with now.

Music Appreciation
What works: A fun assignment that I did with the music appreciation class was to have them put a song they were familiar with in order. This was fun for them to do. When they had finished I played each of their songs and had them listen to see if it sounded right. We had a lot of fun laughing together.
What doesn’t work: At times because of my training I tend to get a bit too technical. I loose the student’s attention really fast when this happens. Being aware of my students and knowing their “I’m Bored” signs help me with this issue.

I have learned to be receptive to my student’s needs, learning styles, and interests. This is very important when working with this population. They have had mostly negative experiences in education. I want to be a positive influence to encourage them to continue learning.

I Love You Doug!

2009-03-26T15:11:00.003-06:00

How do you live when you miss someone so much?

You love everyone the way he loved them!

Doug was the smile in my life. He could always make me laugh. Dizzy French Fry, Geewaus, Marmoset, and so many more. His spirit lite up the room. His love melted every ones hearts.

It has been 8 years and yet it seems like only yesterday. I can't listen to the radio, hear his drums being played, watch Gladiator or hear Pachelbel's Canon in D without crying.

I miss him so much and can't wait to see him again. I'm sure he has a girlfriend and is making big plans. I want to watch him fulfill them.

I miss you everyday! Love Mom

This is what I do for a living. And I love it!

2009-03-10T11:45:00.000-06:00

Returning To An RTC Second Time May Be The Charm
Posted in Adolescent Residential Treatment Centers on Feb 22, 2009
When my son ran away five weeks ago and we sent him back to Heritage Schools in Provo, Utah it was another experience of feeling somewhat lost and relieved. I felt like he was returning home to the place where he belonged and could be taken care of. We knew Heritage, we know the staff and we know that they treat them with love. It was the right place for him. There was no question in my mind that he would not return to the group home he had been living for the past 10 weeks. It was obvious that he was not happy there, did not like the staff and that we would be dealing with the same issues in a matter of days. I know in his heart he did not want to go back to Heritage, but if he had to choose between the two it would have been his choice if we had given him one. Later I asked that question and he confirmed it.
Our relationship has been a bit strained and somewhat distant since he returned, he is tired of being told what to do. All that said the transition has gone very smoothly, almost like he belongs there and he is moving up in his levels without any difficulty. The biggest change for him now is his age, teenagers do grow up and he had his 17th birthday a few weeks ago. It was difficult for him to turn 17 at an RTC, I think in his mind he should not be there and in all of our minds we felt the same way. Missing his birthday has been hard on all of us, but the hope and plan is that he will have many more. From the time he got there these are the thoughts that have evolved in his mind:
The first week he got there we did not expect to talk to him, but his therapist put him on the phone and all we heard about was how we should emancipate him so that “we would no longer would have to worry about him”. I was just glad to get a phone call and that he would talk to us.
Next phone call, he had plans with another resident to get an apartment in the Haight (San Francisco) when he got out of Heritage at 18. He thinks that we want him living in an RTC until he turns 18. Once he leaves he does not plan to ever live in our home again.
Next conversation, he plans to join either the Peace Corp. or Job Corp. when he gets out because they will let him smoke cigarettes, drink and help you get a job.
Last conversation, he does not want to ever return to a regular high school when he gets out. He hates high schools. He wants to go to the community college and now is talking about getting his drivers license, even though he will continue to walk everywhere.
He does not want us to come and visit, because visits in Utah are boring. It just so happens I am going out there for business the first week in March and I asked him if I could visit while I am there and he excitably told me yes. This post is about a lot of different ideas going through his head, some fear that he will be 18 soon. Wanting to be emancipated then asking us to help him get an apartment, community college and a driver’s license. I think he is beginning to take his life more seriously, growing up and what is more reassuring he is able to make decisions with a sober mind.
The second time at Heritage RTC is different for all of us, because it is only months until he will be 18 and then he truly will be making his own decisions.
A toddler learns to walk, they fall down, get back up. Teens make mistakes, fall down and get back up. As parents with teens it is our job not to give up hope and help them get back up.

Concert

2009-03-05T12:04:00.003-07:00

The Wasatch Chorale did their "Broadway to the Met" concert Feb. 26th. It was a great concert we did a medaly from Mama Mia, Les Miserable, and Wicked plus the "Habanara" from Carmen and the "Trumphal March" fronm Aida. I was one of the featured soloists. I snag "Someone Like You" fron Jekyl and Hyde. I will soon get a recording of the performance and will post it. Thanks to all of you that came. It was good to see you there.

Our next concert is April 28 at the Covey Center at 7:30. We are performing the "Brahms Requiem" in German with the Utah Valley Symphony. It sould be great.

We are also going to Europe May 2010 on tour. I'm trying hard to earn the money for this great experience. If you have any extra cash send it my way. JK

Cindy Payton Barlow

2009-03-05T10:32:00.001-07:00

Create your own visitor map!

Mr Duey

2009-02-18T14:07:00.001-07:00

I think it would be so cool to get this guy to come to my school. He does educational raps that are way cool. Help me get him here.

A present from me to you!

2009-02-17T10:16:00.001-07:00

A present from me to you!
I saw this on my friends blog and I thought it was pretty cool..The first five people to comment on 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 (hopefully sooner than later.)4. You will have no clue what it is going to be.5. I reserve the right to do something extremely strange.The catch? Oh the catch is that you must re-post this on your blog. The first 5 people to do so and leave a comment telling me you did will win a marvelous homemade gift by me!Let the games begin!!(Oh, and I have to be able to contact you with mailing information!!!)

Blessings

2009-02-15T09:19:00.002-07:00

I can't imagine what I would be without all the wonderful people in my life. They give me the desire to become better than I am. They bring me joy in every moment. I don't think I could be more blessed than I am. This life is such a wonderful experience but without you I don't think I would feel this way. My children are so amazing and I walk in their shadows. They teach me everyday how to love more, laugh, and find joy in every moment. My friends have stuck with me through the good times and the bad. I look to them to learn how to better love, and to be. My parents (both sets) show me how to become and gracefully age as I advance in years myself. The love I feel for all the people who have touched my life at times is overwhelming and brings me to tears of joy and humility. How can I ever be worthy of all I have. My love and gratitude to all of you who have crossed my path here on earth.

Juniper Has Arrived

2009-01-29T22:14:00.002-07:00

I borrowed this picture from Stephanies blog.

I'm so proud of Whitney and Matthew! I have another amazing grandchild. She is so perfect and beautiful. Her name is Juniper Tamarin. Born Jan. 27, 2009. I have the most amazing family.

Happy New Year!

2009-01-13T22:12:00.002-07:00

Well it that time again...Set goal and break them a week later! Ain't it great! The best part is you get to set them over and over again until you finally decide to keep your own work. Ouch! Well that my goal...To keep my own word to myself. So far so good. You should try it.

Holidays

2008-12-24T11:23:00.000-07:00

This has been an amazing time of the year. I was able to help my friends the Smiths with the Sub for Santa they do each year for the migrant workers. What a humbling experience. I got my company and justins company to collect 77 brand new coats for the new children that have arrived this year. We also collected 400.oo and lots of food. We are so blessed to have so much and it feels good to let go of the material side of the holidays and grasp firm to the spiritual.

I'm the choir director in my ward. This is the first Christmas program i have put together. I think it turned out well. I used a talk by Jeffery R Holland http://www.lds.org/ldsorg/v/index.jsp?vgnextoid=f318118dd536c010VgnVCM1000004d82620aRCRD&locale=0&sourceId=72ad226fecfdb010VgnVCM1000004d82620a____&hideNav=1
as the naration and plugged in the songs. We sang some beautiful arrangements form Sally DeFords music. http://www.defordmusic.com/ I also taught the choir to play the hand chimes form my school. They played Nona nobis Pacem. I also played my Viola with one of the duets. It was not to bad considering i haven't played for 35 years.

Saturday night The Wasatch Choral but on our fund raiser concert at the UVU ballroom. I went very well. Sunday night I sang in the Singles Choir concert at the Provo Tabernacle. I had a solo which would have been better if the accompianist could have played the song. She tried very hard. I used her because she played the rest of the song the choir sang. I sang the air and aria form the Messiah, O thou That Tellest Good Tidings. It is a very hard piece but I love doing it.

I Love My Job!

2008-12-15T15:41:00.000-07:00

I don't like bragging but...I was awarded the Spirit of Heritage award at work. It is given to the employee that exhibits the willingness to go the extra mile. i was so honored. You are nominated by your peers and selected by the board of directors. This is the second time I have received this award in the 7 years I have worked at heritage.

2008-12-15T15:24:00.000-07:00

Life's Adventures Tag
What I've done is BOLD
1. Started your own blog-- with a lot of help
2. Slept under the stars
3. Played in a band--Bass in a garage band in Jr High
4. Visited Hawaii Iwish
5. Watched a meteor shower
6. Given more than you can afford to charity
7. Been to Disneyland--fore th first time 2 yrs ago
8. Climbed a mountain
9. Held a praying mantis
10. Sang a solo
11. Bungee jumped I wish
12. Visited Paris
13. Watched a lightning storm at sea Next on my bucket list
14. Taught yourself an art from scratch15. Adopted a child
16. Had food poisoning
17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty didn't have time maybe next trip
18. Grown your own vegetables
19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France
20. Slept on an overnight train
21. Had a pillow fight
22. Hitch-hiked
23. Taken a sick day when you're not ill
24. Built a snow fort
25. Held a lamb
26. Gone skinny dipping
27. Run a marathon
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice
29. Seen a total eclipse
30. Watched a sunrise or sunset
31. Hit a home run
32. Been on a cruise
33. Seen Niagara falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors
35. Seen an Amish community
36. Taught yourself a new language
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person
39. Gone rock climbing
40. Seen Michelangelo's David-- do pictures count
41. Sung karaoke
42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant
44. Visited Africa I have always wanted to
45. Walked on a beach by moonlight
46. Been transported in an ambulance
47. Had your portrait painted
48. Gone deep sea fishing
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris
51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling
52. Kissed in the rain I wish
53. Played in the mud
54. Gone to a drive-in theater
55. Been in a movie--Touched by an Angel
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Started a business
58. Martial Arts
59. Visited Russia
60. Served at a soup kitchen
61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies But I love eating them
62. Gone whale watching
63. Got flowers for no reason I make them for other people though
64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma
65. Gone sky diving Another bucket list item
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp
67. Bounced a check
68. Flown in a helicopter
69. Saved a favorite childhood toy
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial No but we have the same birthday
71. Eaten Caviar
72. Pieced a quilt
73. Stood in Times Square
74. Toured the Everglades
75. Been fired from a job
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London
77. Broken a bone
78. Been on a speeding motorcycle
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person
80. Published a book
81. Visited the Vatican
82. Bought a brand new car
83. Walked in Jerusalem
84. Had your picture in the newspaper
85. Read the entire Bible
86. Visited the White House
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
88. Had chicken pox--only one or two pox though
89. Saved someone's life
90. Sat on a jury
91. Met someone famous
92. Joined a book club
93. Lost a loved one
94. Had a baby
95. Seen the Alamo in person
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake
97. Been involved in a law suit
98. Owned a cell phone
99. Been stung by a bee

MAXIMUS

2008-12-08T17:30:00.000-07:00

MAX

Well Max has moved home. And we have fun playing at 3:00am every night. He whistle whines for 2 hours and then I give in. I wish he would just go to sleep. He is a cute dog and I love him for all he has done for my family.

I have a friend at work who is interested in trying to see if her dog and Max would get along. She wants a friend for her dog. I think Max needs a friend too. He may have a play date on Thusday to see if it will work out.

I'll miss him but I know she will provide a great home for him. She cooks fresh meat for her dog. He loves meat. He also loves tomatoes, carrots, peppers, mashed potatoes, and many other healthy and not so healthy foods.

2008-12-08T17:27:00.000-07:00

Check out this blog http://janenebaadsgaard.blogspot.com/ This lady is in the orchestra I play with. She wrote the article "Playing in the Orchestra of Life" about our orchestra as a Christmas gift to us. I get to associate with lots of really cool people. What a blessing.

My holiday wish for all.

2008-11-15T12:02:00.000-07:00

I saw this on youtube and thought it would be nice to share with all who pass this way.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS!! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fnqYH7hn7po&NR=1

LOVE THIS FAMILY

2008-11-13T16:05:00.000-07:00

Here is a very special family that I love dearly!

Here's another family

that I love very much!!

Here is another cute

couple that are having

my 6th grandchild.

I'm very excited for

her arrival.

Happy Birthday

2008-11-13T15:59:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Isaak!

I hope you liked my song.

Grammy loves you a lot!

Bigs Hugs!! Grammy

Memories

2008-11-06T12:07:00.000-07:00

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

2. Next, re-post these instructions on your blog and see how many people leave a memory about you. It's actually pretty funny to see the responses. If you leave a memory about me, I'll assume you're playing the game and I'll come to your blog and leave one about you.

Cute Grandchildren

2008-11-04T11:27:00.000-07:00

Here are the cutest grand children in the world. Looks like they got the Halloween bug too. There is a monkey, a pilot, and a bunny. The newest arrival Jacob was a Dalmatian.

2008-11-04T11:19:00.000-07:00

Well if You don't know how crazy I am than this should prove it to you. I made my Halloween costume out of old sheet music I had laying around the house. I had to wrinkle the paper then iron it and then repeat the process. Then I ironed it on to some tacky interfacing. The next step was to sew around each piece of music. Now that I had made the fabric I cut out the pieces to make the skirt and top. I added the cloth sleeves and tole and other trim to complete the look. I think I'm ready for Project Runway. In the picture you are not able to see the bottom of the skirt; but there is another layer of music. Maybe I need to go to therapy.

I'm smarter than a Principal

2008-07-23T23:05:00.000-06:00

I recently took the PLT II for my level 2 teaching certificate. It is a 2 hour test consisting of 4 case studies with 3 essay questions for each and 30 multiple choice questions. You need a 160 to pass and I received 174 which was a higher score than the Principal of the school I teach at. I surprised myself. Now all I have to do is finish putting my portfolio together and I'm set. WOW! What a journey!

Innovative Teacher Award

2008-07-17T23:40:00.001-06:00

http://www.practicalmoneyskills.com/english/index.php
Check this out. And click on July. You will find a write up about one of the things I do at work.

New York, Mountain View and Tahoe

2008-06-11T20:26:00.000-06:00

WOW! What an honor to sing in Carnegie Hall. And New York was so amazing! My brother and sister came to NY to see me sing and we had so much fun hanging out together. A week later we met up in Mountain View for my brothers house warming. Again we had so much fun. I think we are going to do this every year. YEAH!!

Pink Dogwood

2008-05-13T19:44:00.000-06:00

I love Spring and all the beautiful new life that I see!

Grandma

2008-05-13T19:29:00.000-06:00

I love my Grandchildren so much! I love it when they cry when I leave because it makes me feel loved. But at the same time my heart breaks to see them sad.

Go For The Gold

2008-05-13T19:20:00.000-06:00

Yesterday I participated in a 5K race and took first in my division. I had a great time. I don't want you to think I ran it though. I power walked the 3.5 miles in under 40 minutes. The best part of it all is I'm not sore today. I think I will do this again.

New York

2008-04-19T20:35:00.000-06:00

I'm so excited to go to NY. I'm singing in Carnegie Hall. I will be performing John Rutters Requiem and he will be conducting it. How cool is that?