HAPPY FATHER'S DAY, June 21, 2015, TO EACH OF YOU FATHERS WHO READ THIS!
TUESDAY, 16 JUNE, 2015
TUESDAY, 16 JUNE, 2015
WE Safely arrived back to our cave after traveling to Arizona. It took us a day to get to Joseph City and we stayed a couple of days and then trekked back to Oklahoma yesterday. The temperature stayed perfect in Arizona....except right after the reunion picnic, then we had a storm and wind, but it only lasted about 20 minutes...so we were blessed.
Our first item of business, once we arrived in Arizona was to take our sister in law Karen and her daughter Nancy to dinner. We drove into Holbrook to Romo's Mexican Restaurant. It was a quaint little home town restaurant. I don't know if we just ordered weird or what, but it took over an hour to get our food, so we weren't too impressed. The food was good but I still wonder why it took so long to get it to us.
Our first item of business, once we arrived in Arizona was to take our sister in law Karen and her daughter Nancy to dinner. We drove into Holbrook to Romo's Mexican Restaurant. It was a quaint little home town restaurant. I don't know if we just ordered weird or what, but it took over an hour to get our food, so we weren't too impressed. The food was good but I still wonder why it took so long to get it to us.
Our niece Nancy enjoyed being out and greeted many at the restaurant that she knew. That made the wait bearable.
Saturday we began the day by attending a viewing for Nellie Dalton Bushman. She passed away at almost 85 years of age. Her birthday is in August. She and her husband had 8 children and a slew of grandchildren. She has 94 great-grandchildren! It was fun to visit with several of her family. Her husband Virgil was the Scout Master for over 45 years! All Grandpa Arthur's brothers and him enjoyed camping and hiking with Nellie's husband. Now after many years Virgil and Nellie are together again...nice.
We then went on up to Holbrook to the 1960's Holbrook High School reunion. The picture below was taken at the Holbrook Petrified Forest Store. I told Grandpa Art that we were about to be visiting with all his dinosaur friends...so we enjoyed seeing these statues!

We then went on up to Holbrook to the 1960's Holbrook High School reunion. The picture below was taken at the Holbrook Petrified Forest Store. I told Grandpa Art that we were about to be visiting with all his dinosaur friends...so we enjoyed seeing these statues!

There were so many homes that had hollyhock flowers surrounding them. They were just beautiful.
When we got to the reunion and were visiting Jon & Nancy Clark showed up. Both Art and I were thrilled to visit with them. Nancy wore Jon's old letter sweater and that was a big hit with everyone! Jon's oldest daughter's daughter just made Jon a great grandpa and he was just thrilled to be telling about that new little baby boy! Just a note Jon had cut two of the tips of his fingers off with his saw blade. He had to have skin grafts etc. They looked really discussing, but Jon can still use his hand. Just like our son in law, Michael, Jon no longer is allowed to use that saw! Too scary!
This is the back of the sweater Nancy wore. It was so fun to visit with Nancy. At least I knew someone that was at this reunion! Thank's for attending the reunion Nancy and Jon, it was so good to see you both.
Art ordered us both t shirts to wear. The background is really blue....not gray like it looks here.
Anyway, it was fun to be a part of the roadrunner logo and enjoy Grandpa's old memories of years gone by.

This is the roadrunner baseball field...right at the base of the canyon hills.
While we were feasting at the luncheon, this bird flew down and brushed through my hair. At first it freaked me out, but he landed right next to us on the table and just stayed there for about ten minutes. Everyone tried to feed him, but he just sat there. Then when the wind came up and the storm started he flew quickly away. That was an interesting moment.

We went to church with Karen and Nancy on Sunday. They are members of The Midway Ward. Karen taught the best lesson ever in Sunday School "Inherit the Kingdom Prepared for You." You are a great teacher, Karen, and it was so good to be a student in your class. Both speakers in Sacrament and our Relief Society teacher were speaking in front of the congregation for the first time. They all did such a great job. Precious memories were shared. During the talks, on family, in Sacrament meeting, I heard my dad say, "remember your little brother". I thought that a interesting thought. Immediately I knew, I had forgotten that today was my little brother Terry's 59th Birthday.
Terry had thick curly blond hair as a boy!
This is a picture of he and his wife Jill at their youngest son's wedding. Happy Birthday Terry and Happy Father's Day to you too. You are loved here and here after! We hope you had the best Birthday ever and the coming year brings you health and joy, love you & Jill too.
Karen gave me an instrument to help me to be able to open jar and bottle lids. She is such a generous and kind Sister in Law. Thank you for your example, Karen.
My brother, Terry's birthday is on flag day. Karen Bushman has a flag pole in front of her home. She raised the flag every morning for years. She is in her 70's. Her daughter, Joyce, gave her a light for the flag. She really enjoys her flag and the light. All the neighbors like the pole flag too. It looked beautiful in the evenings.
We returned home on Monday. Grandpa Arthur woke me at 3:15 AM and we drove back to Oklahoma. We got stuck in Albuquerque, New Mexico for over an hour and so it was a 12 1/2 hour ride home.
I picked my first New York tomato off the plant I so carefully brought from our mission. It tasted delicious. The vines are not doing well in this heat, however, and
I doubt we will get much of a crop off them.
I doubt we will get much of a crop off them.
Out by the gully, in our yard, there was this dinosaur tree branch...ha. So I went to investigate which
classmate had followed us home? There was a huge tree that had fallen in the gully and this was the part that landed on our yard.
This picture doesn't do justice...it sort of looks like an open mouthed snake! Needless to say, Grandpa Arthur was thrilled that the rest of the tree is mostly in the gully, so he won't have to saw much of it.
I was able to read four books as we traveled. I loved reading about "The Women Who Pioneered Oklahoma" edited by Terri M. Baker and Connie Oliver Henshaw. So many of the first pioneers of Oklahoma lived in dug outs....I kept wondering what they would think of our "dug out" that we reside in. It tore at my heartstrings to read and ponder the hard life these women survived in and some who gave their lives trying but lost this battle. It is a story of those who came to this area over the Trail of Tears, land runs, in wagons, on foot, in barges, and in trains. They truly were an inspiration and because of their faith and determination I was blessed to raise Grandpa Arthur's and my children in this choice land.
"If wisdoms ways you wisely seek,
Five things observe with care,
To whom you speak, Of whom you speak,
And how and when and where."
--Caroline Lake Ingalls
This quote is profound and I am so glad it was included in this book.
I ALSO READ "OKLAHOMA IS WHERE I LIVE" by a Dr. Gary D. Conrad. He lives here in Edmond, OK The book was published in 2013. Dr. Andrew Weil expressed my feelings about this book, so I include his words. "Gary Conrad is a storyteller in the Oklahoma tradition of Will Rogers. He shares his very personal experiences and the insights and wisdom he has gained as a compassionate physician and spiritual seeker. A satisfying read. Happy Father's day Doc Conrad! This is a good book to read and ponder. I am a biased OKIE... I loved this book.
A light fun read: "Old Maid of Honor" by Heather Horrocks 2012; Humorous and compassionate.
Finally, "The Message " by Lance Richardson 2000 This is an Idaho Falls, Idaho gentleman who died and came back to life. His story is totally what I expect to happen when I pass from this life on to the next sphere...if I don't get to twinkle. This book brings understanding of why I even take the time to blog. This life is a test...how are each of you doing as you take this difficult exam?
My lovely friend, Laurie Bithell had a birthday. She sent me a gift. I get a visor...she got a card. Thank you Laurie...you are a great friend and I love you!
WEDNESDAY, 17 June 2015
"Bill" the current storm is rising from the coast of Houston and is coming up to our area today. This area is going to get saturated. Our yard is going to love it. Our home, not so much. Our leak will be tormenting us for the next couple of days. Right at the moment, it is a beautiful misty rain.
Last evening, the Hutto's phoned and asked if a medical student they help could stay at our home. Their son, Joseph, and his family left Nauvoo and came to the Hutto's for the evening.
So Ben Roberts a Ear, Nose and Throat intern hunkered into the cave and spent the evening here.
He has 4 children and he and his amazing spouse have been residing in Tulsa for the last seven years. He has 2 more years left in his residency. Blessings to you and your family Ben. Glad to have met you!
I did my laps at the Y this morning and Grandpa Art ran on the tread mill and cut more of the tree into logs. It is a cloudy, misty, beautiful day in Edmond, OK for a couple of old Okies!
Grandpa and I took a few minutes this morning and drove up the road to Providence Farms. I have been meaning to go there for awhile. Farmer Chris was out in the yard with his three children. He and his wife Jennifer have 2 boys and a girl. Chris is obviously raising children more than a garden and I enjoyed watching them all helping their dad. One son was out hoeing weeds in the corn..which Grandpa thought we should return for as soon as it is ready. Grandpa asked Chris how he keeps all the critters and deer from eating his produce. I liked Chris's answer, "I plant enough that I can share with them too!" Happy Father's Day to Chris. May your children realize the blessing they have in parents like you. Thank you for opening your garden to the public too.
Chris and his daughter.
Purple potatoes? This Idaho girl had to purchase some of those too.
Grandpa helped me wash our purchases. The purple potatoes and turnip are in the crock pot and
the vegies will be cooked this evening. we popped the ends off the beans and will enjoy those this evening too....yummy

As we drove up to the cave from the farm...a hibiscus greeted us!
Our yard is looking good...
Thought I would check on Heather's family today.
Lily went to soccer camp.
Leif was going to his first cub day camp...yes, he was excited...had on the hat Aunt Allyson sent to him. He looks great! He said he loved the camp!
Can you tell Dad is a dentist and loves his children? Happy Father's Day Mike! Ha, ha, I love the headgear!
THURSDAY, 18 June 2015
Tropical "Bill" misted here all morning but the sun kept trying to appear in the afternoon. Had the best Relief Society meeting tonight...on visiting teaching.
I watched a video that was perfect for Fathers Day. I Believe Our Heavenly Father created a most magnificent planet for us to reside on. If you believe, please watch this great video! http://www.andiesisle.com/creation/magnificent.html
FRIDAY, 19 June 2015
Grandpa and I spent the first part of the day doing ordinances in the temple. It felt good to be back within the walls of the Oklahoma Temple. Our life revolves around the temple and we have missed it. Helping others to become forever families is just a good work to do. I hope those of you who read this make time to visit the temple. "I love to see the temple...." "This is Our Father's House..."
HAPPY FATHER'S DAY TO OUR HEAVENLY FATHER
SATURDAY, 20 June 2015
Beautiful sunny day and Grandpa Art has about finished mowing the lawn again for about the third time this week and it looks awesome!
This evening we have the adult session of Stake Conference.
To end this blog I would like to pay tribute to the other fathers in my life. First is my father David. He passed away at age 41, way too young to spend much time with his children. I love him dearly.

Grandpa Arthur's father Elwin was a powerful influence on us both and he also passed away before our children got to know him. Because of his example we have been blessed to serve in the temple.

Malcolm was one of the step-fathers I have been blessed with in this life. His self portrait (before cell phones) says it all. He is unique and I find he endeared himself to our family. I'm sure he is enjoying being in the realms on high!

Grandpa Arthur has been such a devoted father to his children and grandchildren. Grandpa is truly loved by each of us. Happy Father's Day to the wonderful man I married. He gave me the honor of being a mother to each of our beloved children. No greater glory could be mine.
HAPPY FATHER'S DAY ARTHUR VERN BUSHMAN

Happy Fathers Day to each of my sons! Our hearts rejoice this great weekend.
Last, but far from least. June 21st is my mother Sharlene's birthday.
She is responsible for giving me hope and understanding as I dwell on this earth with all of you. She died before all her grandchildren got to know her too...but as summer begins, each year, her children remember her and call her blessed. I love and miss her too.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOTHER !
THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!!
Children & Grandchildren, remember you are never alone. You have heavenly parents and grandparents who love you and are watching over you, in heaven, even as I write this. "You are a heritage of The Lord".
Oh, Happy Anniversary on the 21st to our Ryan and Sarah too!
Two Okie's say, "what a week this has been". Enjoy your families and remember to tell your children you love them.
Hug's,
Grandpa Arthur & Grandma Gene
Art & Gene
"If wisdoms ways you wisely seek,
Five things observe with care,
To whom you speak, Of whom you speak,
And how and when and where."
--Caroline Lake Ingalls
This quote is profound and I am so glad it was included in this book.
I ALSO READ "OKLAHOMA IS WHERE I LIVE" by a Dr. Gary D. Conrad. He lives here in Edmond, OK The book was published in 2013. Dr. Andrew Weil expressed my feelings about this book, so I include his words. "Gary Conrad is a storyteller in the Oklahoma tradition of Will Rogers. He shares his very personal experiences and the insights and wisdom he has gained as a compassionate physician and spiritual seeker. A satisfying read. Happy Father's day Doc Conrad! This is a good book to read and ponder. I am a biased OKIE... I loved this book.
A light fun read: "Old Maid of Honor" by Heather Horrocks 2012; Humorous and compassionate.
Finally, "The Message " by Lance Richardson 2000 This is an Idaho Falls, Idaho gentleman who died and came back to life. His story is totally what I expect to happen when I pass from this life on to the next sphere...if I don't get to twinkle. This book brings understanding of why I even take the time to blog. This life is a test...how are each of you doing as you take this difficult exam?
My lovely friend, Laurie Bithell had a birthday. She sent me a gift. I get a visor...she got a card. Thank you Laurie...you are a great friend and I love you!
WEDNESDAY, 17 June 2015
"Bill" the current storm is rising from the coast of Houston and is coming up to our area today. This area is going to get saturated. Our yard is going to love it. Our home, not so much. Our leak will be tormenting us for the next couple of days. Right at the moment, it is a beautiful misty rain.
Last evening, the Hutto's phoned and asked if a medical student they help could stay at our home. Their son, Joseph, and his family left Nauvoo and came to the Hutto's for the evening.
So Ben Roberts a Ear, Nose and Throat intern hunkered into the cave and spent the evening here.
He has 4 children and he and his amazing spouse have been residing in Tulsa for the last seven years. He has 2 more years left in his residency. Blessings to you and your family Ben. Glad to have met you!
I did my laps at the Y this morning and Grandpa Art ran on the tread mill and cut more of the tree into logs. It is a cloudy, misty, beautiful day in Edmond, OK for a couple of old Okies!
Grandpa and I took a few minutes this morning and drove up the road to Providence Farms. I have been meaning to go there for awhile. Farmer Chris was out in the yard with his three children. He and his wife Jennifer have 2 boys and a girl. Chris is obviously raising children more than a garden and I enjoyed watching them all helping their dad. One son was out hoeing weeds in the corn..which Grandpa thought we should return for as soon as it is ready. Grandpa asked Chris how he keeps all the critters and deer from eating his produce. I liked Chris's answer, "I plant enough that I can share with them too!" Happy Father's Day to Chris. May your children realize the blessing they have in parents like you. Thank you for opening your garden to the public too.
Chris and his daughter.
Purple potatoes? This Idaho girl had to purchase some of those too.
Grandpa helped me wash our purchases. The purple potatoes and turnip are in the crock pot and
the vegies will be cooked this evening. we popped the ends off the beans and will enjoy those this evening too....yummy

As we drove up to the cave from the farm...a hibiscus greeted us!
Our yard is looking good...
Thought I would check on Heather's family today.
Lily went to soccer camp.
Leif was going to his first cub day camp...yes, he was excited...had on the hat Aunt Allyson sent to him. He looks great! He said he loved the camp!
Can you tell Dad is a dentist and loves his children? Happy Father's Day Mike! Ha, ha, I love the headgear!
THURSDAY, 18 June 2015
Tropical "Bill" misted here all morning but the sun kept trying to appear in the afternoon. Had the best Relief Society meeting tonight...on visiting teaching.
I watched a video that was perfect for Fathers Day. I Believe Our Heavenly Father created a most magnificent planet for us to reside on. If you believe, please watch this great video! http://www.andiesisle.com/creation/magnificent.html
FRIDAY, 19 June 2015
Grandpa and I spent the first part of the day doing ordinances in the temple. It felt good to be back within the walls of the Oklahoma Temple. Our life revolves around the temple and we have missed it. Helping others to become forever families is just a good work to do. I hope those of you who read this make time to visit the temple. "I love to see the temple...." "This is Our Father's House..."
HAPPY FATHER'S DAY TO OUR HEAVENLY FATHER
SATURDAY, 20 June 2015
Beautiful sunny day and Grandpa Art has about finished mowing the lawn again for about the third time this week and it looks awesome!
This evening we have the adult session of Stake Conference.
To end this blog I would like to pay tribute to the other fathers in my life. First is my father David. He passed away at age 41, way too young to spend much time with his children. I love him dearly.

Grandpa Arthur's father Elwin was a powerful influence on us both and he also passed away before our children got to know him. Because of his example we have been blessed to serve in the temple.
Malcolm was one of the step-fathers I have been blessed with in this life. His self portrait (before cell phones) says it all. He is unique and I find he endeared himself to our family. I'm sure he is enjoying being in the realms on high!

Grandpa Arthur has been such a devoted father to his children and grandchildren. Grandpa is truly loved by each of us. Happy Father's Day to the wonderful man I married. He gave me the honor of being a mother to each of our beloved children. No greater glory could be mine.
HAPPY FATHER'S DAY ARTHUR VERN BUSHMAN

Happy Fathers Day to each of my sons! Our hearts rejoice this great weekend.
Last, but far from least. June 21st is my mother Sharlene's birthday.
She is responsible for giving me hope and understanding as I dwell on this earth with all of you. She died before all her grandchildren got to know her too...but as summer begins, each year, her children remember her and call her blessed. I love and miss her too.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOTHER !
THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!!
Children & Grandchildren, remember you are never alone. You have heavenly parents and grandparents who love you and are watching over you, in heaven, even as I write this. "You are a heritage of The Lord".
Oh, Happy Anniversary on the 21st to our Ryan and Sarah too!
Two Okie's say, "what a week this has been". Enjoy your families and remember to tell your children you love them.
Hug's,
Grandpa Arthur & Grandma Gene
Art & Gene




















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