Stories

One of my favorites is a really old one though. It was right after I met Homero and he hardly spoke any english. I was visiting them from Utah. Homero and I were driving to San Rafael to get their Mustang looked at. It was kind of an odd drive, because we hardly knew each other and there was also that language barrier. He got a speeding ticket on 101. We pulled away after he was issued the ticket in silence. The silence went on for a few moments when I heard a little voice from the driver seat - "No tell Karen, OK?"Or there was the time that Karen and I pulled into their driveway late at night to find Homero sitting on the front porch alone. He was waiting for us because he was afraid to go into the house alone in the dark! He caught grief for that for a while.Or there were the thousands of wonderful meals with family and friends that he was always so happy to prepare and so happy when we told him how great the food was.I know that now he is with so many people that he loved in his life, looking down on us and knowing how very much he was loved by all of us. Homero was my brother in every sense of the word. I will miss his smile, his jokes, his love and his kindness so much.
-Sam Blair

Now I don't know what came first, the Fred Flintstone costume or my belief that Tio WAS Fred Flinstone. But I can vividly remember KNOWING that Tio was indeed Fred. Evertime the cartoon would come on, I would run to the TV yelling, "Tio! Tio! Tio!" I can still see that old TV, I can still feel the running, and hear my little voice yelling.

So, the news comes of Tio's departure late Thursday night. All day Friday, I just stayed home with the kids, not feeling like going anywhere. While flipping through the channels that day, I came accross a rerun of the Flintstones. When was the last time you noticed it was still on TV? I can not remember the last time I saw it. A rush of happy and sad feeling over came me. I can not describe it any better than than...a rush of happy and sad. It was almost like Tio was saying "Hello" and "Goodbye".
-Karli Stearns

I don't think I ever met a man who smiled more readily or more often than Homero Huerta. To me, he seemed to be in a perpetual good mood. I know of no one who was more constantly and genuinely cheerful. He had a jovial and witty conversational style that made him an unfailingly fun and interesting person to talk to. He was the type of person who when he came into a room the energy, love, and vivaciousness he always seemed to radiate would just lift everyone. He was one of those rare people who you were always glad to see. I will remember Homero most for his kindness, generosity, good humor, and wonderful skill as a chef. One of my fondest memories of Homero was going to Tijuana with him and Jason in 1999. I bought a little desk for Jordan and had to carry it quite a distance back across the border and Homero kept cracking me up with a running commentary about how with each 100 feet, I was adding one mile to the story I would tell of how far I had carried it.

-Tom King

Words alone can’t possible say it; I am glad I got a chance to meet your pop. The 18 holes I played with him were a treat; what a delightful happy soul. He talked a lot about his family and his plans to move to Utah and spend his retirement years here with the kids and grandchildren. I suppose he will now get to see it all from his little soft fluffy comfy cloud in the sky. He will be with you and live in your hearts always.Be at peace. He wants to see you all smile and laugh again. My deepest sympathies and best regards.
-Dave Glissmeyer

I'm at work, sitting by myself with tears on my face. The sounds of the crew, the boss yelling on the radio have turned into a dull, muffled drone. Seeing Homero's picture has really brought it home. My heart cries with yours.
-Ken Emanuele

Im so sorry i know you never here from me but i want you to know that your dad was one of my favorite ppl that i have ever have known. The time i got to spend with him will always be in my memories. He always treated me well even if at the time i did not deserve it.I always thought he was good man with a great heart. Im not going to go talk like our relationship was more then it was but i want to to know that im very sad that a good man is no longer with us.
-Rob Thompson

I'm overwhelmed with so many different emotions reading this and looking at the photos. Saturday we had a party at my house and I taped up some photos of Homero around the kitchen so that he'd be with us while we were prepping all of the food. I'll send along some of the photos later as I come across them. The digital ones will be easy to get to you, the paper ones I'll have to scan and send. I'm going to dig through my boxes from the last time I moved and find my photo journal from the trip to La Paz with Homero and Sully. It was such a terrific time travelling across the peninsula and meeting your aunts, uncles and cousins. I'll send the photos when I get them together......

-Kevin Sullivan

A Message from my Mom...

As I try to piece together the past few days I have found some answers that has brought us comfort knowing that Homero was not in pain when he died. Would it have made a difference if I was home? No, he left that evening watching sports in his favorite chair with his two best friends, Ajax and Bodie. He finished painting the kitchen, spent the day talking with his children, family and friends, ate dinner and left a plate for me. He was happy on the last day of his life. After speaking with the coroner and learning it was not a blood clot or a heart attack but Sudden Cardiac Arrest, I needed to know more. I hope reading this will help you as it has helped my children. As I have received an outpour of support the past few days, it's difficult to remember everyone I have spoken to. Please forward this information with other friends. We are posting more photos and information on the family blog.

We will get through this together,

Karen

What Is Sudden Cardiac Arrest?
Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA), also known as sudden cardiac death, is when the heart suddenly and unexpectedly stops beating. When this occurs, blood stops flowing to the brain and other vital organs.Sudden Cardiac Arrest, occurs when the lower chambers of the heart, called ventricles, stop beating normally and start quivering very quickly and chaotic. This is called ventricular fibrillation or VF. When the ventricles fibrillate, they do not contract normally, making it difficult to pump blood or oxygen to the body. Often, VF can become so erratic that it can result in SCA. If SCA is not corrected immediately via a shock from an external defibrillator there is little chance of survival. SCA is not the same thing as a heart attack. A heart attack is a problem with blocked blood flow to a part of the heart muscle. In a heart attack, the heart usually does not suddenly stop beating. People with heart disease have a higher chance of having SCA. But most SCAs happen in people who appear healthy and have no known heart disease or other risk factors for SCA. SCA usually occurs without any warning. If an individual is not treated within four to six minutes from the onset of SCA, the results can be fatal. Ninety-five percent of people who have SCA die from it, most within minutes.

Yes, Dad so many people LOVE you!

We have received such an amazing outpour of love and support. Yesterday was very numbing and exhausting day as Cubby, Missy, Mom and I gathered our thoughts and tried to absorb reality. Today we started to make plans for the funeral. We know it is Saturday, November 17 at the LDS church in Petaluma. We will have a celebration of his life after the memorial service in the cultural hall. The time will be finalized this evening. We have received emails that have made us cry and laugh. The emails have given us strength and we so enjoy reading your thoughts. As we collect photos, I will post to share with everyone. We would LOVE to share your thoughts and stories during his celebration. Please email our family with your thoughts or favorite memories about our father. tiffinutah@hotmail.com

Last night, Missy and I slept in his bed. After not sleeping for over 24 hours, it felt good to be near him and finally rest. I thought I heard snoring and for a split second thought my reality was Dad asleep in the other room but it was Ajax, exhausted and snoring very loud... I hear my dad in his choppy english saying, "Tiffane, so many pepol love me!" Yes, Dad...so many people love you!

I Miss You!

The Eagle has Gone Home...

Taylor had his board of review for his Eagle. I proudly sewed, well pressed on his badges-only to find out I put them on the wrong side of the sash! Taylor studied and memorized the Scout Oath and Promise, while we drilled him with potential questions. Taylor and my Dad share a long time saying about the Eagle. Christmas gifts are usually given with some sort of Eagle theme. Taylor couldn't wait for his Court of Honor so Grandpa could be there...to tell him the Eagle has landed! After Taylor's board of review and his official words of Congratulations, he called Grandpa. I heard he made the Eagle call and left the great news on his cell phone. However, during that same time, it was my Dad who returned home. We are leaving tomorrow morning to be with my brother and Mom. My mom said he had a very peaceful look on his face. Oh, Pape...words can not express what I am feeling right now.

The next few months will not be easy as we adjust but we sure have wonderful memories.

Meanwhile, I just finished sending my friend an email about what a terrific day I had. I called my mom to tell her the adventures of her grandchildren when she told me about Pape. This evening Tanner had opening night for his school play, "High School Musical". He was awesome. My jaw was on the floor watching him sing and dance. It was a terrific play and the cast was amazing. I was so impressed. I hope Tanner continues in Theatre. It was such a privilege to watch him shine. Instead of flowers, I bought him his favorite coconut shrimp!!! He will finish out the play through Tuesday, that's what Grandpa would want and meet us in California the middle of this week.

Tanner photo was taken after his first performance. He is so tired. Three news stations did morning specials starting at 5:45 am every day. I am so proud of you Tan Man...and now Grandpa will be with you every performance! Jordan and I had a great time watching you this evening. Jordan also had a terrific day of skating and clean programs! She is working so hard and will now need to show a lot of courage and strength with the challenges we will all face. She knew Grandpa would not want her to stop training, so she will join us later this week.

So to my sweet Dad, what happens now is so unclear and we are all in shock. I wish I had one more phone call, he was my walking buddy. While I walked at the rink, we would talk on the phone. Unfortunately, I didn't call him today...but Jason and Missy talked with him. I love you Pape...please be near us!

Scary PaPe!!!

Don't scare the kids Dad!!!! Happy Halloween!

Happy Halloween!!!

Halloween is one of my least favorite holidays. I could not tolerate the Halloween parade at elementary school, so honestly, I never went. Making costumes were not my thing and I could never pretend to be excited for my children. As a child, I could never make the candy last for 2 nights but I always knew cousin Karli had a stash. She could make it last for years!!! However, I did enjoy the early years Trick or Treating through Pacecho Valley. Beautiful homes and great treats. In all fairness, my mother did an exceptional job with Halloween costumes. I just never caught the excitement of dressing up or my children. It's right up there to cooking. We had a few fun years playing loud music and Jason spooking the kids when they came to the door. Pumpkin carving...it's just a mess, sticky and smelly. Jordan was quick to leave with Jason for a grocery run and came home with it...the pumpkin. She did carve it with some help from Tanner and it proudly sits outside. Don't worry, I have candy ready for the trick or treaters and Jordan, Tanner and Taylor are off with their friends. Now, I can't wait for what's ahead...report cards this Friday, Tanner in High School Musical, Jordan competing at Jr. Nationals, my mom is spending the week with us, snow and getting things ready for Christmas!

The Good Old Days!

I am a very lucky person. I have a terrific marriage, challenging yet gifted teenagers and amazing friends!!! Nothing is better than having a great friend. Eight years ago, when we moved to Utah from California, we purchased this amazing house. The best part was our neighbors, especially Colleen. Her children were 10, 8, 6, and 4 while mine were 8, 6, and 4. I am so thankful for meeting Colleen. She is an incredible mother and friend. Our children had a blast growing up. We didn't have a fence so our backyard was one big field. They spent hours dancing, fighting, making up games and just having wonderful memories together. It's strange and surreal how much can change in a few short years. Of course we moved and found an area we love but nothing can compare to the friendship I share with Colleen. Back then, we would talk everyday and now it's a struggle to find an hour to catch up. However, it doesn't matter if we have not talked for weeks or months when we finally do, it's as if we never missed a day. I have a handful of things that I am so grateful for, and having a friend like Colleen is one of them. Over the past weekend, we were able to spend some time together. Her daughter was having a baby shower...now what touched me the most was the bond our children have created. Tanner begged me to join the party. So among all these women, Tanner joined us playing the games and enjoyed watching his friend venture into motherhood. Yeap, nothing beats a great friend. No pictures of Colleen and I because we spent every minute talking. We stayed much longer and enjoyed watching the World Series together. I did take a photo of Tanner, Nicole and Jordan asleep in the living room. Thanks Colleen for a wonderful family and letting us be a part of your lives!

Jordan Made It!!!

What a week! Jordan placed 4th in the Central Pacific Regional Championships, earning a spot to compete in the US Junior Figure Skating Championships November 26 - December 1. She had a terrific program and enjoyed the crowd support. I will admit I was nervous earlier in the morning. It was a terrific competition and all the skaters were strong, energetic and showed so much personality on the ice. It's a great group of girls that are advancing from our regional. Congratulations Jordan! We are so proud of you!!!

Uncle Steve and Uncle Larry making us all laugh and acting silly! Uncle Larry threw Jordan the duck that her Great Grandmother gave him. Uncle Steve is trying to keep his bald head warm!

Tanner stayed in school but Taylor joined us for Jordan's final round. The past week Tanner stayed with Aunt Missy while Taylor and Jordan searched for the surprises Jason left around the house in the mornings. Taylor is a great big brother!!! Jason announced later in the evenings for this competition.

Brent, Uncle Larry, Uncle Steve and Aunt Missy

Uncle Kool-Aid and Uncle Steve

Jordan made it to final round!!! It will be a very tough competition and Jordan will have to work very hard and execute all her elements. It was a sweet surprise to see Uncle Kool-Aid and Uncle Steve. They even joined the figure skating spirit of throwing stuff animals on the ice. However, Uncle Kool Aid plans to bring a pillow and blanket tomorrow for the final round. The cold bleachers were not too comfortable.

Tanner in Cedar City

Tanner had a great weekend attending the Utah Shakespearean Festival in Cedar City. He left with his drama class Thursday morning on a yellow bus for the 5 hour drive...yuck! Tanner watched many many plays but his favorite was the Mouse Trap. He loved the stages, classes and being with his friends. Of course, most of the photos were taken of girls but I found at least of one of him at the hotel. He came home 2:30 am on Sunday morning and we talked till 4:00 am. We surprised Tan Man with his own cell phone the day before he left. He had to earn a 4.0 to receive his phone. Even though the school quarter isn't over, his midterms were 4.0. Now he has to keep it up! He slept from 4:00 am to 5:00 pm. Tanner wants Aunt Missy to chaperon next year. They would have a blast!

Oktoberfest 2007

Jordan finished her last non qualifying competition of the year. Her jumps are finially back after her sprain ankle! She placed 2nd, missing 1st place by .04 of a point...she is learning it's more than just landing the jumps...every smile counts! Regionals begin October 9 in Bountiful, Utah. It feels odd not making travel arrangements for another competition. I am glad it's local this year. She has one more week to fine tune her program and be mentally prepared for Regionals. This photo was taken at a practice before competition. So much time and effort is required in this sport. It's challenging at times but watching her grow up and learn about a higher level of discipline is amazing to experience.

Homecoming 2007

The boys had a terrific time at the Homecoming Game Friday night. East won their 5th straight game. This year Taylor attended the Homecoming Dance and invited Shauna. Shauna is a very hard working young lady, juggling a full schedule of studies and working many hours after school. Tanner isn't quite ready for the dances but he is practicing every day after school with the High School Musical cast. I heard he is singing and dancing...

Check out Tanner in the back of our photo!

It's Never Full Coverage!

I have always been very good with doctor and dental appointments. My children have all their shots and routine 6 month dental visits...but I have yet to experience a 6 month visit completely covered by our dental plan. I first go in for a cleaning...oops, my crown since high school has a tiny cavity and needs replacing. I am not as pain resistant as Jason, I do not like the dentist, any dentist and those that do are weird. It was painful, miserable and long laying in that chair with 4 hands in my mouth. My tooth still hurts and my temporary crown keeps popping off. This beauty of a visit cost $650.00 plus a bottle of Aleve. I still feel a metallic "zing" when a fork enters my mouth. Tanner and Jordan are next...no cavities but new teeth whitening trays, add another $200.00! Finally, sweet, brave Taylor is next. Having brittle bones is a challenge but it also effects the teeth and they are just as brittle. His 6 month visit leads to a referral to the oral surgeon. He needs two implants, one with bone grafts and wisdom teeth pulled out...don't worry that's only $7000.00. So my parental duty of 6 month dental visit cost us over $7850.00 but hey I at least have my fluoride covered.

Tan-Man

Tan-Man...you are awesome! This year Tanner is taking drama in high school for the year. He has found a new interest and really enjoys making people laugh. This is the best part of being a mom, watching your teenagers who make you worry almost every breathing second, find something they are good at. Tanner will be participating in the our high school play, "High School Musical"...Both Tanner and Taylor attend East High where the famous movie was filmed. His drama teacher is the director of the school play and requested Tanner to join the cast. Now the question is, will he sing???? (He has Jason's beautiful voice!) Perhaps, my constant nagging to sing church hymns during sacrament will pay off! Keep it up Tanner, enjoy every minute of high school!

Speaking of Tanner...when Jordan's choreographer, Evgeni is in town, Tanner stays with Aunt Missy and she takes him to school in the morning. ProTel loves it because Missy arrives earlier to work. This morning I also had the neighborhood car pool and noticed Missy's red ProTel car dropping off Tanner. I thought back to a decade ago when Missy would rescue me from our hyper and dangerous Tanner. She would often take Tanner for the night between the time he was born through four. Jason and I needed the break often! Who would have ever imagine, 10 years later, he still would be sleeping over and she would be taking him to high school in Utah??? Thanks, Missy!

Sweet Memories of Grandma (G-G)

We are in LA for a competition this week. For many years, Jordan brings along "Fleece" to competitions. It's a replica of the original "Fleece" that my Grandma held on to. Jordan and her G-G, my Grandma shared a special bond before she died. How I wish she was here to watch Jordan's beautiful talent on the ice but I know she is watching from above. This trip was a little crazy because school started and we were off the next day to LA. I forgot one suitcase that contained all our cosmetic needs, toothbrush, soap, hair stuff, curling iron and much much more. I also thought I forgot "Fleece" and didn't want to tell Jordan because it would be the excuse of a bad skate. During practice today, while Jordan was warming up, I went to her skate bag and found "Fleece". I was touched seeing "Fleece" and knowing Jordan was thinking of Grandma too!!!

Happy Mom...First Day of School!!!

Officially, school starts today!!! What a blessed reward to a long summer...the kids are not quite as excited as I am...Even though I will forever have the kindergarten schedule (Jordan attends 1/2 a day then skates), I love my few hours in the morning of freedom. Its quiet, calm and the wonderful smell of Pine Sol because I can finally clean and keep it clean for a few hours!!! I am not the only one happy...the TV is happy because it's not on the majority of the day, the house is happy because it's clean and less traffic, my checkbook is happy because they are not eating all day long, the fish are happy because they don't hear the echo of loud music and siblings fighting. Oh, it's just beautiful when school starts!!! I must mention Aunt Missy and Jason...Jason no longer gets up by himself. Aunt Missy even gets to work early some weeks because she takes Tanner to school when Jordan's choreographer is in town...I just love school! Don't you???

It's been nearly 4 years since the boys have been in the same school. This year they will both attend East. Taylor has a tough schedule but will continue with film and photography. He finally finished his Eagle project and we are currently planning his Court of Honor. I hope he has a terrific year! He will stay very busy (which I like) working at the Complex (ice rink) and umpiring games at the Smith Field House. Tanner will entertain us all. He is taking drama, film and small engines...along with his core classes. I believe Tanner will enjoy everything High School has to offer.

Jordan starts Middle School wearing the attractive uniforms. I believe school will be easier to manage since she is taking specific subjects and leaving before lunch. It was tricky in elementary, leaving early. The first three months of school is a challenge for her because we miss so much with skating (LA and local Competitions, Regionals and HOPEFULLY, Junior Nationals) It will be a great year for her!

Now, off to clean, run errands and pack...Jordan competes in LA this week!

Hot, Hot, Hot...PaPa's Salsa

Hey, PaPa...the Scouts LOVED your salsa.

We had a great evening outdoors, eating sweet Nancy's amazing dutch oven food. The boys shared skits, songs and photos from the 50 miler. Taylor is working on his Eagle project and it should be completed this week. The city baseball league has a snack shack that has not been used in years. Taylor has spent hours cleaning the shack. (It was disgusting!) His troop will paint the shack this week and hopefully the league can increase their fundraising with the use of the snack shack during the season!

PaPa's in Town!!!

Grandpa spent the past week with us. We had a great time and it was fun having him around. Of course, we all ate well!!! It was great to have him home and playing golf since his knee replacement in January. I can't believe summer is almost over...it's been so hot in Utah and I am ready for winter. Two more weeks till school starts...I am ready!

Don't Sleep Outside!

Jordan slept outside however, she wasn't alone. Some type of bug bite her on her face. She spent the past two days trying to reduce her swollen eyes! Her ankle is doing better and expects to begin her normal training this week.

Jordan was coloring Taylor's hair when it was long. Since then Taylor had a little haircut. (He looks more like Cubby after the haircut!)