Phil Burk Family Blog

2011-11-07T22:36:00.000-07:00

So today Holly decided it was time to wash both of Scott's blankets. He's such an easy going little boy that instead of throwing a fit and crying, he sat himself right down in the laundry room to wait! She didn't even know he was in there waiting until she passed by the door and saw him locked in a staring match with the washing machine. I'm not sure, but I wouldn't be surprised if he waited there the entire time :) What a sweet boy.

Scott Waiting Patiently

Hermana Burk!!!

2011-05-31T21:32:00.003-06:00

Hermana Burk is LOVING her new step in life! Her letter to me mentioned something about "Quote Constipation" and I had to laugh because I'm sure no one is there to respond to or finish her line lol but she says it's really good for her. She says she's "still trying to find a balance between loca Bonnie, y Hermana Burk, Missionera de Cristo", that it's been hard but she can do it with the help of the Lord. She leaves for Chile on Thursday (right?) and she's nervous but so excited! She would love letters, but reminded me that if she "...didn't get any it would be ok, but please please please send them (I mean, no big dea"). lol You can write her on DearElder.com and select the mission. Give it a try.
Keep her in your prayers, let her know she's not forgotten :)

Change the Date

2011-04-26T19:29:00.002-06:00

I guess I posted too soon. We've changed the dates to July 24-27th Sunday through Thursday morning. This way we can all make it- which will be really great :) Chase has put a lot of work into this and I'm excited for it.

Phil Burk Reunion 2011: Cascade Idaho

2011-04-17T15:07:00.003-06:00

Chase and Bonnie are in charge of the reunion this year and unfortunately for Chase, Bonnie decided to go on a mission instead. So he's doing it by himself this year and I'm grateful for his work and efforts. He has set the dates for July 31st-Aug 3rd (Sun-Wed) and has a lot he's working on so it will be a lot of fun. If you have questions post them here or give him a call. He's going back to school this week and I'm glad he came home this week to take a break and spend some time catching up with everyone.

Braden's soccer game

2010-11-14T21:09:00.004-07:00

Brookie and I went to see Braden's last soccer game. It was a close game and Braden did a great job.

Christmas List

2010-11-14T13:59:00.007-07:00

2010
Family List
Phil Burk Family: Holly's Family
Roman's Family: Phil Burk Family
Prairie's Family: Roman's Family
Jasie's Family: Prairie's Family
Holly's Family: Jasie's Family

Let me know if you have any questions, comments, changes, ideas- Thanks :)

Making Pumpkin Pies with Logan

2010-11-08T20:58:00.001-07:00

Two years ago Jasie came over to make pumpkin pies with Logan and he hasn't forgotten it. This year he kept asking if he and Jasie could make pumpkin pies so tonight she came over and we had fun making a mess lol. He is the worlds best helper and even cracked the eggs himself (with only a few small pieces of shell this time) and he couldn't wait to get them in the oven. I guess no shirt is easier than trying to find an apron that would fit him lol. And he pushes out a white bucket from the pantry to stand on so he can reach the bowl. Here's to a new tradition and fun memories :)

-Holly

Mom Grabs the Bull by the Horn

2010-10-25T23:04:00.002-06:00

Mom's visit to Nauvoo this year-She's a natural :)

Happy Birthday Calvin and Dad!!

2010-10-16T13:26:00.002-06:00

Grandma and Grandpa left for Philly on Friday morning- Calvin's Birthday was the 13th and Dad's Birthday was today! HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAD!! It's too bad you're not here but I bet you are still having a great time with Prairie and Larry and their family. Calvins Baptism is tonight and I'm sad I can't be there for it. But I'm hoping Prairie will keep us updated and hopefully post some pictures.

I'm so proud of all my nieces and nephews: Usually I make it to a lot more Soccer games than I have this year, but I'm trying to juggle my time and haven't been doing very well. Mason finished his Eagle Scout Project and finally got his cast off- Michelle's Blog has some great pictures. Mason, Braden, and Spencer are all playing soccer again and Roman and Michelle are kept pretty busy as well. I'm excited for next month when Mason will start going to Stake Dances, and Spencer will be baptized. Next Spring Braden will turn 12 and recieve the Priesthood.

Tony and I have both enjoyed a busy Summer: We had a lot of fun at the Reunion- Usually I have a lot of pictures but dropped the ball this year. I know Michelle has some really good ones- She has a great talent with the camera and was able to capture so many good shots- it's a gift.

Tony's been working on his Dad's farm and has loved that he got his tan back lol They are just finishing up the bean harvest and were able to get the winter wheat planted in time before the water was turned off. They are still milling and he comes home pretty dirty, but he's grateful for the work, and has enjoyed working around his family and with his dad. His younger brother got home from his mission a few weeks ago and he likes spending time together.

I was called into the Relief Society Presidency and sometimes I feel that when I'm not at work, I'm at church lol. Two weeks ago Tony was called as a Sunbeam teacher. He has 11 active kids which he is growing to love already. He told me about one little girl who is "Sleeping Beauty"- first she announces who she is, then she touches the door handle with the tip of her finger and melts to the ground. Last week I heard that there will be 21 new Sunbeams at the beginning of the year :)

Zacks in school and working hard. He recently had someone he works with ask him if he would switch his Weekend overnight shift! Tony used to work the same shift and it's the hardest one to work, and the the hardest one to get someone to cover for, so to have someone just ask for it was great! Holly is very excited to have him home on the weekend, but I'm not sure if it will take place soon. She's kept very busy with Scott and Logan. One of Logan's new favorite things is "The Friend" and asks Mom to read to him from it each night after prayer and scriptures. He's growing up so fast! Scott has some of his top and bottom teeth already and is almost ready to start crawling.

Bonnie and Chase are both in school and we able to come home last weekend for a family hayride. They will both be off this Winter and I'm sure they both have big plans but I will let them share. I hope they both get on here and keep us updated.

Brook is looking forward to when she can drive at night and without 'just a permit'. She turned 16 in August and she's getting very excited for her big trip with mom and dad in November. She has a great gift for writing her own music and playing the guitar, and I hope one of these days she will feel ready to share it with all of us. For now it's a work in progress. I hope she makes an album someday soon. I'd buy it :)

I love all of you and pray you are all doing well. I thank my Father in Heaven each day to have been blessed with such a great family. I hope we can always stay connected and close to one another. I hope to do more to enrich each of your lives and share what I learn. I pray that we can strengthen each other, give support, and share love with one another. God bless each one of you.

2010-07-25T15:19:00.011-06:00

Bonnie and Chase were able to come home for the 4th of July break: Tony's parents were great to let us use the pond for a Saturday afternoon swim. Some of Uncle Brian and Aunt Sonya's family came and we had a great time!

Zipline tower, diving board, high dive, canoes, rope swing, kid water slide, and docks. We had a great time. Mom and Dad brought their paddleboat and

Logan paddled all over the pond, except when he decided he wanted to jump off the diving board like everyone else. Good thing he was strapped into his life jacket as soon as he got out of the car- and Zack had a good talk with him before he jumped but once Logan got to the end he changed his mind and decided for the slide :) Chase brought his girlfriend Camille home again and I enjoyed getting to know her better. Mom and Dad came and enjoyed som sunshine and Holly brought Scott to share in the fun.

Road Trip

2010-06-21T21:32:00.000-06:00

After the reunion we drove to Manti and stayed for the Pageant- it was a great experience that Tony and I enjoyed a lot. We'd never had the chance to go before so we appreciate going with the family and with Mom and Dad.

We drove home the next day and enjoyed a few games: True to form- Dad came up with a fun one: To win you had to be the last one to finish your grahm cracker but you couldn't use any hands :) 2 hours later Mom claimed she's figured out why all of us are so competitive when dad and I had to call it a drawn :) We had a great time!

Jacob Hamblin Reunion and Grand Canyon

2010-06-20T21:08:00.000-06:00

Tony hasn't been to the Grand Canyon since he was a kid but doesn't remember it- he only knows he's been because of a picture his mom has :) So it was a lot of fun to go with Mom, Dad, Brook, and him. We drove down from Kanab after the reunion and it was a great day trip- well worth it.

Sometimes it was so calm, and other times, without any warning it would get SO windy! Sometimes Brook couldn't see at all and nearly got blown away :)

It was a great view :)

Mom went adventuring :)

The Birthday Spank

2010-06-02T22:31:00.008-06:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ZACK! I can't imagine our family complete without you. You started as just a great friend to all of us and have just become even more. Even though you and Tony started off rocky- you've been a best friend to both of us. You were the best man at our Wedding, and we still think of you that way. I love that you will go out of your way to help anyone- including complete strangers- never expecting anything in return- you help for goodness of helping. You're still one of the best men I know. Thanks for putting up with our family- Love you! In the spirit of Birthday pranks and spanks, he received a birthday spank from Holly on his birthday and Tony recorded it to share with everyone who might've missed it :) Enjoy! -Jaz

-Tony

...Having been born of goodly parents...

2010-05-16T14:52:00.006-06:00

Today Tony and I went to our first two meetings of church and for the last hour slipped into Holly and Zack's ward (we meet in the same building and her block follows ours) so we could hear Holly's talk in Sacrament Meeting. The primary presidency had been asked to speak and her topic was on the love our Father for His children. I'm know I'm probably a little biased but she gave the best one :) Tony leaned over to me halfway through and said, "Boy- I feel sorry for the two speakers after her because it would be hard to follow a talk like that." One of the things she said really got to me. I pray she doesn't mind me sharing this thought. This is in my own words as there were parts of the story she had shared with me before and had left out of her talk.
She told of the sorrow she had felt on a difficult day a few months ago. She'd not only been 7 months pregnant and chasing Logan around but had also been watching the 4 children of a friend while she and her husband had gone out of town for a few days. She'd been overwhelmed by the burden of feeling inadequate and of feeling like a failure as a mother, a feeling I'm sure that so many mothers often feel. She had been amazed to learn a few days earlier that these 4 other children were not familiar with the scriptures or who the prophet was. She had tried to make a difference in their lives and teach them all that she could in the few short days she had with them. By the end of the last day she had not felt any better and was on the verge of tears. She was alone at home because Zack had to work an overnight shift, and she wasn't sure what the next day would bring. The weight of feeling like a failure as a mother was starting to take hold. One night as she began to make the rounds of the evening, after all the kids had been put down, turning off the lights and picking up the remains of a busy day, she passed by little Logan's room. He wasn't quite 3 and had been feeling a little ignored as his mommy's attention had been split - quite a change in his little routine. She leaned in to check on him and make sure he was asleep. Tears finally came to her eyes, but not in sorrow, for she found Logan praying to his Heavenly Father. It was a short and simple prayer, but he had done it on his own. All of her fears and doubts were washed away as she watched her own son doing what she had taught him to do so many times in love and patience. She listened to his small voice and knew she was making a difference.

What a tender mercy from the Lord to remind Holly that she is a good mother, that her efforts are not wasted. What a reminder to me that the Lord is happy when we are obedient to Him and follow His commandments.

To my parents, I also thought of you during this talk and wanted to say thank you for all the time, love, and effort you put in for me. I may be grown now, but I am grateful for each building block you gave me. Each simple truth taught and led by example. I'm sure there were/are days when you might feel like failures as a parent (Mom- we've heard you say it quite often :) but you made a difference in my life and I am grateful for it. I pray that I can show my gratitude by the way I life and the choices I make, and by the way I raise my children. Thank you :)

Mothers Day

2010-05-09T23:32:00.005-06:00

Hi everybody, Just trying to keep in touch and utilize this great tool Jasies made for us.
Yes, it is 1:30 in the morning. I am on my occasional online binge. I just got off the phone with Mom and Dad for mothers day and Larry has been at work since Friday morning (this is his record, 90 hours straight!) so that explains why it was a good night for a blog.

Among other things, I want to share one of my reminisences from today in honor of our of mom. I took the kids and a picnic to meet Larry at work after we got home from church so we could have a mothers day lunch with him. On our way into the hospital I noticed there were little pieces of crap all over the sidewalks and I had to steer Azalea and Calvin appropriately. Upon closer examination I realized it was "goose poop", and had the most overwhelming charmed smile and memory of "sweep the goose poop" as a staple on the Saturday morning chore lists we grew up with. I looked around and cherished the sight of free roaming geese the hospital had employed on their grounds. It was the dearest moment of the day. Remembering, how unique we were; the only house I have ever seen with free roaming geese for pets! Here's to you mom!

We are down to 8 tadpoles... Why do they die? Changing their water has been a trick. I lost two down the sink just yesterday!

Here are a few pictures of Azalea in the Azalea Gardens behind the Philadelphia Art Museum (where the Rocky steps are). I have wanted to take her down there for pictures since we moved here. They are only in bloom in April. They were gorgeous!

Bailey's birthday was fun. Her new earings are really cute and sparkly. She got her birthstone which lucky for her is the diamond. She also got her 10 year old pictures taken yesterday . I traded photography for piano lessons with one of my students' mom. Wish you lived closer Michelle! I should have them up by next week.
Bailey also just got her side ariel in gymnsatics. That means she can run and flip in the air and land on her feet with no hands. It is a really cool trick. I love watching her.

Yesterday Calvin had a fun baseball game with two hits. Then we worked hard in the yard for 5 hours. He has been prepping our gardens. Hopefully we can get them planted in the next week. I am grooming him to be my yard man as mom groomed Roman. Man Ro, you were great at that. I could sure use a helper here. We have a lot of land to upkeep.

Conrad has rolled over twice now. But hasn't had too much tummy time in the last few days as we have been going and going. I need to stop that and slow things down a bit. I am working on that. I love it now when he gurgles and blows bubbles. He is a riot in the bathtub.

I just want to share a special insight I had the other night while reading the gospel principles manual and after having a gospel conversation with a friend. Although a devoted Christian, I learned that my dear friend Ashley didn't know that we were alive spiritually before we came to earth. Upon reflection, I have been stunned at the implications this entails, and considered how greatly we take this doctrine for granted. It is soo meaningful. After our conversation I came home and studied the gospel principles manual, replaying my words over and over and wondering if I could have said it better, said more or said something else. I was impressed by the statement I read that when we accepted and shouted for joy at the plan Heavenly Father was offering us, we "were all mature spirits".

I was troubled over this for a day while I pondered if this really meant there were no spirit children at that great council (nor spirit children in heaven), but understood later that this must have meant we had all been spirit children and had grown up to mature spirits and really were at a point of no more progression, until we could come to earth. We were "30 and still living at home" so to speak. No wonder we were excited at the chance to come to earth, get a body and prove ourselves.

It also jived with something dad said to me when he came to see me at the hospital when Conrad was born. He was talking about how much he enjoyed working with Jasie, and Roman, and being with us as adults...that he felt like he had know us forever, and that it seemed so long ago that we were children. This statement, coupled with my understanding of our adult status in heaven gave me cause to realize that I knew and loved my children as mature spirits in heaven and that someday I will again share that relationship with them as dad does now with us. It gave me a new found patience and respect for my children in the satge that they are in now, realizing just how responsible I am to love and lead and guide them through these formative, growing up years as they are coming along the same path and journey that each of us has taken before. It made me consider how kind and good I want to be to them now (despite and especially when Azalea spills smoothie all over me and grumpy Calvin refuses to help clean off the tablecloth) because, soon, and before I know it this stage of their progression will all be over and they will be mature adults and set in their ways.

All the really significant influence I will have on them is now, in their formative years, and someday when the veil is removed and I see them as they were and are and really will be, I don't want to regret any terrible failings to them as their earthly mother, teacher and guide. It also helped me see and appreciate mom and dad for "going first" and giving us all they had and teaching and instructing us as best they knew how. Thank you dear mom, dear father. Thank you for your good and gentle love.

Love you all
Prairie

PS I just re-listened to Julie B Beck's talk from conference. Man I love her! She was surely one of the noble and great ones at the Great Council!

Just checkin in

2010-04-28T00:03:00.002-06:00

Hey ALL!

I want our family to be awesomely connected! SO I thought I should pipe in...

We have around 25 tadpoles in a vase in the windowsill right now. They are like 1 centimeter big. We feed them spinach and watch them everyday! They are soo terrific! A co resident of Larry's brought a cooler of them into work and passed out baggies of them to take home. Everyone elses have died except ours. I can't tell who is more excited about them, Larry or Azalea.

Bailey got her ears pierced last Friday. She is soo responsible and cleans them about 6 times day. They look really cute and sparkly. She is growing up so fast!

All 3 kids got their teeth cleaned today. No cavities for B and C, but Z has 4! No more candy in this house!

Thanks to Brooklyn for a great new baby blanket she sent! So soft and cute!

Big thanks to mom for sending me a wonderful old bible story/scripture hero book I put together when I was a kid. You always made time and a way for me to make all my projects! I can't imagine how much paper mess I must have made with that. You are wonderful! Thank you!

CHASE and BONNIE... I want to hear all about the burg! How bout an update... and where's my Genie pants?
hugs
P

The D fam

2010-04-18T20:52:00.002-06:00

Okay: So here's the skinny on the D-fam, Larry is working like a dog at three jobs, by day he is a happy radiation oncologist, by night he is a really good CPR instructor for UPENN and by weekend he is a really firm Dr. at an Addiction Recovery Hospital in Valley Forge, where he won't give the patients more drugs, even when they cry for them. But his new passion is ice climbing, and whenever he has a free moment he reads about it online and can't wait till he can afford expensive gear like ice screws and crampons.

Prairie has rediscovered the joy of motherhood and has decided to not sign up for anything extra that isn't important and not to kill herself running to answer every phone call, opting instead to focus on teaching Azalea... (I have decided to teach her how to read)and savoring every waking moment with Conrad, the cutie, who just turned three months and can lay on his tunny and hold up his head and smile at you really big. He has an adorable little dimple above the right corner of his mouth, and the darkest blue eyes you ever saw. He even coos now if you talk to hi m long enough. I love him! Conference made me realize i can't waste a minute not teaching my children something! My time with them is so limited and precious.
Bailey has been very excitedly planning her 10th birthday party, which will be a campfire and tent event in our backyard. She will be playing hostess and learned how to send out evites and has planned a game of capture the flag, roasting hot dogs, making smores, and sitting in our tent with all her friends making shadow figures with flashlights and telling ghost stories. She is also excited that her mom finally talked her dad into letting her get her ears pierced for this birthday and can't wait to have her date to the mall with her mom.
Calvin has been Philly-ized (by his dad) as he has had to learn the name of every Philly's baseball player and their position and has now begun to wrap his logical little mind around the great game of baseball and the ins and outs of every possible play. He marched in the annual Glenside parade Baseball opening day and had his first game of the season last Saturday. He has taken up the Nate the Great books and will finally practice the piano without mom threatening him (almost). Maybe that's just because she put silly bands in the prize box... Do you have those out in ID?
Azalea is enjoying moms efforts to pay more attention to her and has helped make lasagne and gingersnap cookies in the last few days. She has also been well prepared for the baseball season by her mother teaching her about Frances Scott Key and the story and words to the Star Spangled Banner. She only changes her outfits about three times day and only peeled a three inch square of plaster off the wall today and flooded the bathroom (yesterday) which sent water through two floors soaking all the extra towels in the basement that mom would have used to mop up the floor.
Our family has been enjoying Dad reading aloud The Secret Garden on Sunday nights and listening to Cheaper by the Dozen in the car with mom.
I think of you all so much, you have no idea! Thanks for all you love and calls. We feel so grateful for a goodly family.
Love to you all!
Prairie

Recent News?

2010-04-18T16:42:00.004-06:00

-Roman is even more involved in the PAL soccer league that Mason and Braden are playing in and is still coaching.
-Michelle is fine tuning her photography skills and they both play on the indoor soccer team with Tony and I.
-Mason is a rockstar on the guitar.
-Braden scores all the points on his soccer team.
-I'd love to hear how Prairie and Conrad are doing.
And how Larry is doing in Philly
-Holly and Scott are both smiling
-Zack is studying hard in school
-Chase is home from his mission and has started school at BYU-I.
-Bonnie gets home from Jerusalem in just over a week if she doen't get kicked out before that for breaking the rules....again.
-Brook is our accomplished music and lyrics writer but doesn't like to admit it and has just finished taking Drivers Ed.

If anyone cares to elaborate on some of the headlines I'm sure we'd all enjoy- I should do a better job at keeping up with everyone on a personal basis but no one's perfect :)

Quick update on FHE this Sunday...

2010-02-24T10:45:00.002-07:00

Actually just a quick update -This Sunday FHE is at 6:00 not 5:30 (Our house)-sorry for any inconvience but it's also my mom in laws birthday and Zack and I are going to be over at his mom and dad's house from 3-5:30 -so hope this works for everyone.

Family News and Update

2010-02-21T16:27:00.004-07:00

Chase gets home on March 19th- I can't believe how fast the time has gone. For anyone wanting to be there at the airport we don't know the exact arrival time but Mom will keep us updated on that when she gets it.
He will be speaking in Church the Sunday following: Letha Bldg at 10am.

Next Sunday is the Combined FHE: At Zack and Holly's House (Unless otherwise noted) at 5:30pm. I'm sure the time is flexable we if need to adjust it but let me know ahead of time. Just a reminder, Mom's challange to us last month was to read the entire Conference Ensign by the time we meet again.

The Quarterly Super Activity planned for next month will be just after Chase gets home. Ultimate Frisbee and the location is undecided at this point. Bring snacks to share.

Bonnie is getting home on April 23rd

If anyone else has any other announcements please feel free to comment or start a new post. Thanks!

Newest Family Member!

2010-01-30T17:04:00.002-07:00

Thomas "Conrad" Daugherty
Birthday: Jan 15, 2010
8lbs, 1oz

Congratulations!

I LOVE THE NEW COLLAGE JAZZ! CUTE!

2010-01-28T13:18:00.000-07:00

Family Reunion Dates

2010-01-19T07:15:00.005-07:00

Hey Everyone,

Our summer dates seem to be filling up much faster than they usually do (already). If our family is going to make it to the reunion, it is becoming imperative that we secure those dates very soon. So I'm opening up the discussion here.. I hope Holly doesn't mind me stomping on her turf b/c it is her year to plan it...I'm just trying to give us the best odds of making it out to see all of you!

Traditionally we've done the first week in August, does that work for everyone? If we did a Wednesday-Sunday, that would make it August 4-8.

July is looking very, very bad for us. Pretty much any July date is out for us. But we could be more flexible in August if there is an alternative date in August that works well. June is also not an option for us as the kids get out of school late and also I will not have any vacation (my vacation time replenishes in July).

Let's try to hammer this out soon. If everyone can comment, that would be much appreciated. Thanks, Larry.

Family Time

2010-01-17T14:42:00.002-07:00

Mom would love it if we could all get together on the last Sunday of this month for dinner. I just thought I'd find out what everyone else's schedule is like and maybe we could set a date and time. Please let me know. Email me or post here.

Email and Posting

2010-01-06T20:29:00.003-07:00

Thought I'd just check with everyone, and probably should have done this a while ago:
Do you want an email update when this site is posted on or do you just want to check it on your own? If you want off the list (we all get tired of junk mail and busy mail) just let me know and I'll remove your email and you can check it when you want. If you don't care, I'll leave you on the list. Also, does it send a new message everytime I modify the page? Sometimes I do a couple changes in a row with pictures and stuff so let me know. If it does that, it's probably annoying! :)

Also, just as a reminder~ you're ALL set up to have posting privileges and not just comment ablility. Feel free to use that anytime.

Bonnie Left Today

2010-01-06T01:59:00.003-07:00

She drove down to Salt Lake City and flew out for Jerusalem today. We'll miss you Bonnie! But hopefully she can keep us updated on here and maybe send us an email once in a while. We'll have to get her address once she gets there and gets settled in, for the occasional package. Bonnie, we're all so excited you get this opportunity and love you so much!

Happy Anniversary Roman and Michelle!

2010-01-02T14:02:00.004-07:00

14 Years Today and I'm so glad you did. Michelle, you're a great addition to our family and I'm glad you put up with all of us. We love all your kids and love having you guys close. Happy Anniversary!

This Is For YOU Mom!

2009-12-31T02:49:00.007-07:00

Iron Man Drinks Barley Green

Batman Drinks Barley Green

Merry Christmas from Chase

2009-12-11T22:58:00.001-07:00

Elder Burk after Surgery

2009-12-09T21:52:00.005-07:00

Mom's Adventure's

2009-10-19T21:05:00.011-06:00

A quiet moment this summer, thinking of all my children and the history under this tree -it's changed as much as all you kids. :-) Look how mature it is!

This September I had a wonderful time with one of my very close friends -Kristi Lish. We went to St. Louis for Eagle Conference and had the most incredible experiences. I even sent a referral to Chase ...a lady I've known from Eagle Conference for many years. It turns out many years ago she had joined the church and then fell away because of anti mormon literature. She has always loved me and you kids that I've brought to conference... and asked about each one individually -When I talked about Chase she said "Oh! Send him to my house so I can feed him!" (She lives in Charlotte)

This is a picture of Phylis Schlafly (Middle) and my friend Kristi (Right)

Ps. Joe the Plumber and Michelle Bachmann came to the Eagle Conference too :)

After the conference in St. Louis Kristi and I took our adventures to Nauvoo and the surrounding areas. This is a picture of Kristi and I in Carthage jail with a picture taken of us through the bullet hole in the door.

Joseph Smith hid in the basement of Ellis' home.

This is in front of my ancestor Ellis Mendenhall Sanders. We stayed here at his house one night -it's not been rebuilt -it's been lived in ever since it was built -when he fled Nauvoo it was quickly moved into... and is still in the most excellent condition. Now it is a bed and breakfast -Privately owned (Many of the Apostles stay here when they come to visit).

(This is really the Sidon River)

This is Brigham's root cellar.

Dad's New Poem: Magdaline

2009-10-13T10:08:00.002-06:00

If you haven't already gotten this, I've posted the Poem along the left side of the Blog. Thank you Dad for sharing this with us. What a great gift you have. This poem is a gift to me and I'm grateful you shared it with us.

Sunday, October 04, 2009

Last Tuesday afternoon, I was off work early and was home alone. Beau was out of town and as I went to adjust the thermostat I began to peruse the pictures of our family ancestors. My eyes rested upon the picture of grandmother as a young woman. What a beautiful girl, I thought. That young woman would attract the admiration of any young man. Lucky for me, it was my grandpa. My eyes wandered over to a picture of dad, taken when he was about the same age as grandma. He looked to be about nineteen or twenty. I looked back and fourth between the two noting how alike they were in facial features. Unmistakable features of the Nielsen’s, I thought. Then I recalled how often people have remarked to me how much I looked like my father at the same age and then it occurred to me that I could see myself in her features. How unfortunate, I thought that I should know so little about my own maternal grandmother. I was told throughout my life of what she went through to raise her family in the harsh environment of the early American west. My mind was carried over to the pictures of this same woman taken just ten to fifteen years later. I was struck by the shocking difference in her features.

I sat down and began to write. As I wrote, I began to wonder what her personality was like. What her voice sounded like. What sort of things gave her pleasure? My only reference was her two daughters, Aunts Eunice, and Nina. Of a sudden she began to speak to me. I felt myself encompassed in her love and her presence very near.
The words of the verse that I was writing began to flow on to the page without my writing them. The tears began to stream down my face, just as they are doing now. I knew you all would like to hear what she said. I wish she had said more. I wish she had written volumes. How we would cherish them. The best part about the experience wasn’t even the poem. It was the experience. Unfortunately, I can’t communicate how I felt.

Family Hayride

2009-10-13T10:00:00.004-06:00

I found out Sunday night that the Family Hayride is this Friday night. The wagon will start at Uncle Monty's house, be there at 6pm. Bring your coats. Dinner and dessert will be provided. Don't forget to let Aunt Merry know how much we love going and how glad we are she is still doing it. It's also Dad's Birthday so don't miss this opportunity.

Christmas 2009

2009-10-08T09:47:00.004-06:00

Family List

Phil Burk Family: Roman's Family
Roman's Family: Prairie's Family
Prairie's Family: Jasie's Family
Jasie's Family: Holly's Family
Holly's Family: Phil Burk Family

Bounds of Creativity Unlimited

2009-08-16T20:16:00.001-06:00

"If you are a mother, you participate with God in His work of creation—not only by providing physical bodies for your children but also by teaching and nurturing them. If you are not a mother now, the creative talents you develop will prepare you for that day, in this life or the next.
"You may think you don't have talents, but that is a false assumption, for we all have talents and gifts, every one of us (see D&C 46:11–12). The bounds of creativity extend far beyond the limits of a canvas or a sheet of paper and do not require a brush, a pen, or the keys of a piano. Creation means bringing into existence something that did not exist before—colorful gardens, harmonious homes, family memories, flowing laughter.
"What you create doesn't have to be perfect. . . . Don't let the voices of critics paralyze you—whether that voice comes from the outside or the inside.
"If you still feel incapable of creating, start small. Try to see how many smiles you can create, write a letter of appreciation, learn a new skill, identify a space and beautify it."
Dieter F. Uchtdorf, "Happiness, Your Heritage," Ensign, Nov. 2008, 119

2009-06-21T15:19:00.004-06:00

Fathers Have a Divine Role in Families

“Satan, in his carefully devised plan to destroy the family, seeks to diminish the role of fathers. Increased youth violence, youth crime, greater poverty and economic insecurity, and the failure of increasing numbers of children in our schools offer clear evidence of lack of a positive influence of fathers in the homes. A family needs a father to anchor it.”

L. Tom Perry, “Fatherhood, an Eternal Calling,” Liahona, May 2004, 70.

I just wanted to pay tribute to our Dad and say thank you for being who you are. For leading our Family and for the example that you are to all of us. I hope that you know it made a difference and that I love you.
-Jas

The History of Father's Day

2009-06-20T17:22:00.001-06:00

Father's Day, contrary to popular misconception, was not established as a holiday in order to help greeting card manufacturers sell more cards. In fact when a "father's day" was first proposed there were no Father’s Day Cards!
Mrs. John B. Dodd, of Washington, first proposed the idea of a "father's day" in 1909. Mrs. Dodd wanted a special day to honor her father, William Smart. William Smart, a Civil War veteran, was widowed when his wife (Mrs. Dodd's mother) died in childbirth with their sixth child. Mr. Smart was left to raise the newborn and his other five children by himself on a rural farm in eastern Washington State. It was after Mrs. Dodd became an adult that she realized the strength and selflessness her father had shown in raising his children as a single parent.
The first Father's Day was observed on June 19, 1910 in Spokane Washington. At about the same time in various towns and cities across American other people were beginning to celebrate a "father's day.".
In 1924 President Calvin Coolidge supported the idea of a national Father's Day. Finally in 1966 President Lyndon Johnson signed a presidential proclamation declaring the 3rd Sunday of June as Father's Day.
Father's Day has become a day to not only honor your father, but all men who act as a father figure. Stepfathers, uncles, grandfathers, and adult male friends are all honored on Father's Day.

http://www.holidays.net/father/story.htm

Just a Mother?

2009-05-03T17:22:00.006-06:00

Michelle, one of your recent posts reminded me of a page from my files. And in light of Mother's Day next week, I thought we could enjoy a whole week of it instead of just day. So I'd thought I'd share. I don't know who wrote it, it's a blank page with these words, and I'd saved it from years ago. Enjoy!

I'm just a mother? Excuse me??? A few months ago, when I was picking up the children at school, another mother I knew well rushed up to me. She was fuming with indignation. "Do you know what you and I are?" She demanded. Before I could answer and I didn't really have one handy she blurted out the reason for her question. It seemed she had just returned from renewing her driver's license at the County Clerk's office. Asked by the woman recorder to state her her occupation, Emily had hesitated, uncertain how to classify herself. "What I mean is," explained the recorder, "do you have a job, or are you just...?" "Of course I have a job," snapped Emily. "I'm a mother." "We don't list mother as an occupation...'housewife' covers it," said the recorder emphatically.
I forgot all about her story until one day I found myself in the same situation, this time at our own Town Hall. The clerk was obviously a career woman, poised, efficient, and possessed of a high sounding title like "Official Interrogator" or "Town Registrar." "And what is your occupation?" She probed. What made me say it, I do not know. The words simply popped out. "I'm a Research Associate in the field of Child Development and Human Relations." The clerk paused, ball-point pen frozen in midair, and looked up as though she had not heard right. I repeated the title slowly, emphasizing the most significant words. Then I stared with wonder as my pompous pronouncement was written in bold, black ink on the official questionnaire. "Might I ask," said the clerk with new interest, "just what do you do in your field?" Coolly, without any trace of fluster in my voice, I heard myself reply, "I have a continuing program of research (what mother doesn't) in the laboratory and in the field (normally I would have said indoors and out). I'm working for my Masters (the whole darned family) and already have four credits (all daughters). "Of course, the job is one of the most demanding in the humanities (any mother care to disagree?) and I often work 14 hours a day (24 is more like it). But the job is more challanging than most run-of-the-mill careers and the rewards are in satisfaction rather than just money." There was an increasing note of respect in the clerk's voice as she completed the form, stood up, and personally ushered me to the door. As I drove into our driveway, buoyed up by my glamorous new career, I was greeted by my lab assistants- ages 13, 7, and 3. Upstairs I could hear our new experimental model (6 months) in the child-developement program, testing out a new vocal pattern. I felt triumphant! I had scored a beat on bureaucracy! And I had gone on the official records as someone more distinguished and indispensable to mankind than "just another mother." Motherhood...what a glorious career. Especially when there's a title on the door.

Thank you Mom for all the Sacrifice you have given and still give for me. I have always wanted to be a Mother and your example has never caused me to wish otherwise. I know it's not easy, and that you aren't always given the recognition that you deserve, but thank you for being my Mother. I love you.
-Jas

Soccer Shots!!

2009-04-26T17:59:00.016-06:00

We can't go through Soccer season without spotlighting our own players, so here are a few of them. Prairie, are you kids playing this year? If so, we'd love to see pics of them. They're all growing up so fast!
Here's Braden warming up as Goalie on the Hornets Team.

And another as he throws one in on the field. So far his team can't be beat!

Mason has a great Corner Kick.I think this week his teams name was "The Chicklettes".
They have a running

streak of their own :-)

Spencer loves

to keep his skills on the down low until he surprises his opponents with his moves :)

And they couldn't do it without "Coach Burk"

This is Brook, Signing In

2009-04-23T22:39:00.003-06:00

Ok, I've joined the Blog and I'm excited to contribute and keep up with everyone. I've also started my own Blog and will try and keep it updated for all your reading enjoyment! Brookmyster.blogspot.com

Pictures Pictures!

2009-04-18T23:32:00.034-06:00

Well, I have been archiving my pictures lately and thought I should share a few good ones with the rest of you. Enjoy!

Bonnie on her Birthday, celebrating 19 years of individuality and counting!

Here's Grandpa on his 94th Birthday Party. He played the harmonica to a game of musical chairs. It was great and he got a kick out of it :)

After Conference a few weeks ago, we went out to the field and flew some kites.

After troubleshooting, Dad finally got the 'Big Daddy Kite' flying with his problem solving skills that we all love.

Bonnie, of course, getting into the spirit of it!

Logan finally got the hang of it

Tony and Zack fixed

the long forgotten and broken Trick Kite and we all had a lot of fun taking turns flying it. It takes two hands :-)

2009-04-13T22:24:00.000-06:00

This new pic is for you Zack! Let me know if you'd prefer another :-)

Happy Birthday Logan!

2009-03-28T17:56:00.004-06:00

Happy Birthday Logan!!!!
Hi just a quick note -I'm having a birthday party for Logan tomorrow (Sunday March 29) at 6:00pm -Everyone who can make it -we'd love to have come -but no stress, it's just for fun... :)

$Reunion Question$

2009-03-04T00:33:00.002-07:00

Ok, so I've been going over a few things lately and really have to bring this up: I was thinking it would be time to find out how things are doing and everyone's plans for the Reunion this year. I know it's been a hard year on everyone and so I don't know if there are still plans on for the same finances. If your budget and schedules have changes then please let me know. Either post here, or shoot me an email. Thanks!
-Jasmine

This is Mom

2009-01-26T22:36:00.011-07:00

I just joined the 21st Century! Who would've thought I'd be blogging. (Ghost written by Jasie). lol but she's here and learing how and will be up to speed in no time. I'm at an ancient spot here in the picture, at the entrance to the Pyramid at Giza. I have my own Blog at beauburk.blogspot.com. Come and see my other pictures of our adventures.

How to Join

2009-01-18T17:48:00.002-07:00

I've sent everyone an invite for this blog, but in the email you must accept to join so that you will be a member. I've set it up so that anyone can read it, but only members can post. I've added you all to the authors list (Which will give you the ability to post like it's your own blog) and so you must accept that as well. If you'd like another invite, just let me know. Thanks!

Is there a family resemblance or is it just me?

2009-01-11T22:40:00.000-07:00

I couldn't help but toss these into the post...I wonder where he gets it? :-)

Family Unity

2009-01-11T14:27:00.000-07:00

I just got home from a wonderful day at Ward Conference, where the discussion was on Unity. What a wonderful topic! It got me thinking a lot about our Ward Families, our own family units, and the family of my parents, siblings, and their families. I think the discussion inevitably brings to mind the question "What am I doing to help unify my family?" My mind pondered over the Unit of Anthony and I. I made a few notes and goals in my head and then I started thinking about my extended family and my mind started racing. I've been mulling over many topics and ideas for this years family reunion for quite a while and so today I decided to start a new family blog, for these purposes, and possibly others.

You don't have to be a regular visitor of this page, don't feel obligated to post or comment, but at least know that it is now here, to use for the purpose of keeping us close to together, sharing ideas, thoughts, pictures, news, etc. Enjoy!
-Jasmine