Rachel

November 26, 1977

Dad

The first of the group – Rachel, we both learned a lot from each other. It ran the gamut. From peace to passion. She was the first in the “Snuggly”, a papoose sling kinda thing. It was made out of blue corduroy. The first to go to Alice Birney Elementary School. Rachel has never lost her distaste for a plastic wrapped sandwich. I know as she reads this she experiences revulsion at the thought. I tried to get her to appreciate a well stocked lunch by sending her to school with only a soda cracker in a brown paper bag (I know, pretty cruel, huh?) Backfired. She thought it was great. I think it provided a quicker route to the playground. Rachel is the only child I can remember that I was so mad at once that I opened her bedroom door and put the doorknob through the sheetrock wall (hey, I was young…)

Her world travels started early. As a freshman she spent a few weeks in Germany with a school group. I think she went early and made her own way for the most part. Are any of us surprised now? Once I dropped Rachel off at a Church dance and watched her go in the front door. I found out later she walked out the back door and went to another party with a guy friend. Rachel drove her siblings to violin practice. She would take detours and drive out onto the Mad River gravel bar and show them where she had gone Steelhead fishing. Cal Bingham gave her a shotgun. Rachel built gun cabinets and drafting tables. She raced BMX bikes. She brought home a herd of ducklings and built a pond in the backyard. She adopted a baby pig orphaned by one of her friend’s dad’s pig hunt. It lived in our garage for a while.

All of her talents, bravery, craziness, and charisma came into focus when I looked up into that Redding sky and saw a pink smoke plume rocketing to the earth and some dude on a loud speaker said that was Golden Knight Sergeant Rachel Medley. A lot of thoughts went quickly through my head. One of which was “open that chute, Rachel!”

One thing is certain – Rachel is an achiever and adventurer – anything is more fun and exciting when she is around. She’s the kind of girl you want on your team, and I get to be her dad! Miss ya, and have a great Birthday, Rachel

Mom

I remember how excited Rachel was about each new sibling. I heard stories of the older kids and jealousy but it never happened. She was always jumping all around at the news, then playing with the baby at every opportunity, then taking the little ones on great adventures outside with sticks, boards, blankets and her endless imagination.

I will never forget sitting in the EHS auditorium watching Rachel play the Bach Double with Alicia Gibbs as a freshman in High School. She was so confident and lived to make music. It was beautiful. I loved to hear her perform on the piano in recitals--she was excellent. With these outstanding events, one would never know that when she was youger, I really thought Rachel was tone deaf. She could not sing without help and tuning was always a fiasco in grade school. Then one day it all changed. I don't remember when, but suddenly she knew the sounds perfectly and then her singing caught up around mid-high school age. I'll forever remember singing with her in ward choir, second soprano for a couple of months.

Sarah

Memories of Rachel!

So many. So so many. Going to Bonomini's after school and buying $5 worth of penny candy... that's a lot of candy! Her buying a pig, driving race car style down the Ag. hill... driving to and from violin lessons, also race car style... talking late into the night... going to the river with crazy wigged out people....stealing her clothes... her stealing mine... crying... laughing.. being friends as adults while she lived in Salt lake... dating crazies, living with crazies, dumping crazies... being a thousand different things, having a thousand different careers... visiting me and my kids... being forever skinny and smart and funny and gifted... hanging out in Florida...

Rachel is so special. Too special. I talked to her on her birthday and she said she was going out to eat, then going home to hang out with her cat... that sounds mighty nice right about now as I wrestle Matilda for the keyboard and the rest of the little ones are whining!!! love you Rache, happy birthday!!!

Hannah

The free spirit. Rachel you have always been a friend to me.... well.... I guess we have had our moments of pure rival enemies but it was worth every fight. I think we are kindred spirits because of our fierce independence. I love that about you.
When I think of the greatest bonding moment with you and I, my mind is often drawn back to the dark blizzard we drove through on the way to Yreka from Redding. We were in the little blue Jetta. Half an hour in to the drive, we had to chain up. We drove and drove. Finally when we came to a town, we got off the freeway for a few minutes. As we returned from a freeway entrance north, there was no one on the freeway (found out later, it was closed, that's why). There were no tracks. Just pure powdery white snow for miles. We would stop and wipe the snow off the lights every few minutes. We could see no more than a few feet in front of us. Yet we continued on. When we arrived to Butte Summit is when it began to completely white out. The blizzard was so intense, we couldn't see anything. At that moment I wondered what our fate would be. Would we die out here stuck in a little blue car all night? It happens. In the white of the blizzard there were faint flashing lights and we could tell we were getting closer. We stopped at the car that we found stuck in the snow drift close to the shoulder (I guess it was the shoulder, who knows). When we approached we found two sisters and a little boy about a year or two old. They lived close but were stranded. They swam through the waste deep snow to our car and we headed up the hill to their house. Half way us we were officially stuck. We hiked (or swam) through the snow to their house. There is where we stayed that night. Under an electric blanket. That was the night we almost met our Maker. That was the night we rescued a few young dumb girls, just like us and a little kid. That was a night I will never forget as long as I live.
There is no other person on earth I would have rather shared that experience with Rache, you are the best.
And we still went snowboarding the next day.
Happy Birthday Rachie! Stay true to yourself, you are an amazing woman.

Jared

I remember that on one of the greatest days of my life, the day my mission came to an end, Rachel showed up. Her and Dad came in to town on a bus held together by chicken wire. I proceeded to show them around the city for the next 2 days, wide-eyed, crammed into "shapas" speeding all over town, on the brink of death at every turn, not to be swayed. Rachel has always been able to become completely at home in any place after just a short time. After only 2 days in Mozambique, leaving the few people she had only just met brought her to tears. Rachel has a tremendous capacity to love and learn. She has been going non-stop since I have known her, and that's what I love about her. Keep it up Roach.

Miriam

My guardian. Capture, short hair that made me want to cut mine short in fourth grade, Shakespeare, teaching me what third position was when i was trying to play the bach double at age 5, Tommy Boy, The Messiah, books books books, teaching you that Chopin prelude, straight A's at CR, sharing clothes, Strictly Ballroom and many other movies, music music music, hanging out in NC at Sarah's then coming back to Utah and having too much fun.

Rachel, you've been on so many adventures in your life and with each and every one of them I hold memories very close to my heart. We've had many great intellectual conversations and emotional conversations and you have always been such a special part of my growing up. I love you with all my heart Roach. Love, your forever guardian.

P.S Remember when we went backpacking in April up Canyon Creeks? We slept on the flat rock surrounded by snow...I have since learned the power of snow gear. And then we ate dried apricots on the way back and had the worst gas. Good times.

Gideon

Rachel- The backyard in the Oregon street house was the host of many a game. Capture was a daily thing, and my character of choice was a ninja. Even with my head wrapped in a sock, however, Rachel never ceased to have enough magical power to defeat me. I have a specific memory of laying on the garage floor under her witch spell with all the other siblings. I decided to finally unleash my ninja skills and destroy this paper-clips-on-her-fingers-for-witch-nails villain. Of course, without hesitation Rachel said, "Chiaaa-a-a" and re-cast the spell upon me with her broom. I'm pretty sure she was wearing a cape too. I don't remember much else so the spell must have worked. We miss you Roach.

Gideon.

Naomi

Rachel is definitely the epidemy of style. So jealous. I remember when she worked in New York and would send us pictures and packages with cool seasonal decorations. I always wanted to be the one to put everything up. I usually got my way too. Rachel takes pictures of the places she's been with her foot in the picture, to prove she took it. She always has awesome shoes and they will always be too big for me. Rachel lived with us when she went through EMT training. She had a cot in Miriam's room for a while. We would stay up late, go fun places and embody the crazy medley girls that we were. Right after my 16th birthday, Rachel enlisted in the army. I remember being so proud of her. She was so matter of fact about the whole thing. She would send us letters and give us phone calls from all the places she went.

two years ago, Jared and I went to visit Rachel in NoCakalaka. It was so much fun. Rachel took my skydiving. The BEST experience of my life. I love telling people that my sister jumps out of planes for a living. My oldest sister is the greatest.

I never tire of telling people about my wonderful sister and all the things she has done in her live, all the adventures that she has endeavors.

Last year on Rachel's birthday, I called her from Disneyland when I was on my honeymoon. I knew I shouldn't have called anyone but I couldn't take it. I had to call her.

I love you so much Rachel and hope you have the best birthday eva!!

Jared

September 19, 1982

A little late but still beloved...sorry Jared. It took me some time to put these together today too. I must have really fell of the band wagon at the end of the pregnancy...

Dad

When Jared was about 5 or so, one of my friends wonderd, : do ya think he'll ever grow into those ears?" They seem to fit fine now. How 'bout the quote of all quotes offered by Jared when Gideon was born, "I feel like my brain is in the shape of a heart" Ah, a tender and rare man he is. How bout the time Jared lowered Gideon from the balcony in the rope harness- super Melvin, ouch! Jared thought the Merit badge book said lower someone from a substantial height. It actually said sufficient height. Jared went from pesky punk to trusted right hand man in Mr. Middlemiss video class. Jared's film work - what can I say? From deeply moving to hilarious, he did a little of each.

Mom

I remember as if it were happening now looking down at my little five day old son, limp with fever and so tiny. We took him to the emergency room and they gave him an x-ray and a spinal tap. It was clear that he had pneumonia, though a moderately serious case, one that had a good prognosis. Tiny little needles were stuck into his tiny veins and he laid there in the NCU bed. After three draining days we brought Jared home. Life became very precious to us.

When I took Jared to get his kindergarden shots, he was well prepared by me, with my lecture on relaxing and encouragement that he could do it! He was so stoic during the shot and picked out his sticker and his balloon. Everyone was so proud of him and he was especially proud and relieved. We had not driven far when a loud pop sounded in the back seat. A moment later, Jared was reducd to a rush of weeping. All the control he put forth during the shots was undone by the sudden and violent loss of the balloon.

Sarah

ahhhhh Jarie. The best memories I have with Jarie are when he lived with us in Lehi on a couple different occasions. I always loved having him around. He introduced me to Nickel Creek and touched my life in a thousand million different ways. The best memory, though, is traveling down to Coachella with Jarie doos. Me and Katie took my truck and Jared drove his car (he bought from Camille). We stayed in Indio together and spent an entire full day at the concerts. Jarie, you are forever the funny and smart. I want to be like you!

Hannah

Highschool can be an awkward and rough few years. You made it all worth it. I am so glad you forgave me for what I said in Jr High, I am still working on forgiving myself! You welcomed me in to your circle of friends. We would go to Moonstone instead of class on a regular basis. We would hit up Smug's for lunch. We would complain about listening to Mr Russell in Limited. I think I ditched class more that year than I went. Still, I call you now and then when I am driving in the car. You answer and you are working, yet you always make time for me. Thanks for being who you are Jarie, stay that way forever.

Miriam

My fondest memories of Jared are during a few poignant times in my life.

The first time was Sophmore year, Jared was a Senior. We would go days without showering or washing our hair. I'm not sure why...I think Jared convinced me it was more important to get sleep between early morning seminary and school than to address personal hygiene. Plus, we grew up in Humboldt - a few days without a shower was NOTHING. I have learned since, but Lynn, I apologize if he has retained any of those habits. We would go climbing, I would listen to him talk about girls til the wee hours of the morning, we drove around in the 'blue light', the name for the VW Jetta, coined by the Dane - Lasse - and we built that awesome climbing wall. Too many good memories. He took me on my first date when I turned 16 too. Mom gave us money to go somewhere nice but he talked me into Subway and a movie instead.

The second time was my first year in Utah. Jared (and Gideon did too but this is Jared's post) would get up at 5 in the morning on Saturday and drive me to work. We would long board the canyon in the middle of the night, eat pancakes with ice cream and bananas afterward, and he was just the best brother ever. I am jealous that I don't have them to myself anymore but I am more happy that they have brought beautiful girls into the family!! Jared has alway been so giving and generous. There is no way I could ever repay him for all he has done. Except that I funded that whole climbing wall project...hmmm, so I guess that makes us even! Ha ha. Love ya Jerry.

p.s. you still owe me a barbie bro. i haven't forgotten.

Gideon

We used to play Kick the Can one summer when I was. It was exclusive to that summer for some reason, but we played enough to last us all for years. Jared was always suiting up in some camo outfit and discovering tunnels and paths through the blackberry bushes. I remember one time playing at night and being on Jared's team. We had hid in Nancy's yard, our neighbor, behind a bush. We heard Naomi, probably eight or nine, timidly scanning the yard as she looked for us. When we realized she was coming right toward us, Jared pulled from his pocket a secret weapon -- one that can wreak havoc in the darkness. Jared flicked a switch and I heard a high pitched ringing that slowly disappeared as he raised it above the bush, calling out to Naomi. With the push of a button the entire yard was illuminated for a fraction of a second, giving me enough light to see that Jared had been carrying around a big ol' camera flash Naomi had looked toward Jared's voice and became temporarily, but totally blinded. Jared and I bolted, leaving Naomi writhing with her hands over her eyes and screaming, "Ja-RED-uh! That's not fair!"

And so Jared masterminded the greatest Kick the Can victory known to Glen street. If Jared only knew how many more times he would set one of those things off in people's faces.

Naomi

Jared was always so much older than me but he has always been so creative- musical and crafty. Unfortunately one thing I remember is when I had a Hanson Brothers CD and I loved it!!! But Jared smashed it along with my Space Jam CD for one of those creative projects. I was very tragic and I think thats why I have remembered that. Jared and I went to North Carolina and Florida for Thanksgiving a few years ago. We got stuck in Las Vegas for a night without extra clothes, internet or much food. We walked the strip and had so much fun spending time together. In the past few years, Jared has been such a great brother letting me stay at his apartment and always offering anything he has when I came down to Utah to visit. He has shared his photography with me as well as his other creativity. I love that Jared brought Lynn into the family. She is so fun. I love that both of you are so happy. Love you. Naomi

Bethany

i dont have any childhood memories of jared since i wasnt born, but i remember when he came back from his mission and we were in the family room and i was sitting right next to him and i started petting his face and he turned to me and said "bethany, what are you doing??? you dont have to touch me to make sure i am really home....". needless to say i was really embarrassed......

You have to see this!!!

Singing Time.

I went into Ruby's classroom today and did singing time. No wonder Mom did this so often in our school! You are a celebrity when you walk into that classroom! The teacher sits at the back of the classroom with an obvious jealous look on her face.

I taught them "Old Mrs. Witch" and "One Little Skeleton".

It was so fantastically fun! I am going again in two weeks. I love that Mom taught music to us and that we can pass it onto the kids. Between vision screening and kindergarten testing, their day can get pretty dull.

Oh, and Mom, I left a print out of the words with the teacher in case she wanted to sing them next week sometime. I turned in my badge to the office, and when I walked back past the classroom on my way home, they were singing One Little Skeleton!

Here's to being the celebrity!! yahoo!!!!

A Boy

Cuddled deep within his precious mother dwells the first cousin to challenge the plumbing of the day. The wardrobe will be all brand new. He will lead the pack of cousin Eagle Scouts (I hope). The six den mothers before him will require a fair amount of navigating on his part. But for now he is safe.

Safe from the world and its harshness.
Safe from the violence of breathing and hunger.
Safe from self-esteem issues.
Safe from worry.

Thank you to the vessel who carries him. You are the fourth Medley mother. Welcome to the lovely sorority so warm and embracing. Your delightful personality will make a happy and loving young Medley boy.

More more more.

I LOVED Mom's post below! So great!

Can you believe that when I was almost due, Miriam was finding out the gender of her baby. And now that Miriam's on the brink, Katie will find out in a few weeks the gender of theirs? Each of our babies will be about 4.5 months apart. Pretty crazy?

Okay. Some changes. Rachel is not going to stop in Salt Lake at all. Don't talk to me about it, I'm really sad and wishing she was here.

Mom and company are arriving Thursday evening, hopefully in time to go to a speaking event at BYU with the girls in the fam. I will probably be down at Miriam's or thereabouts by 6pm. Hannah is probably coming down with me.

Lastly, I talked to mom today for a few minutes and seriously, SERIOUSLY we could not stop giggling. About nothing. It's safe to say we're excited.

Girls, any requests for dessert on Saturday? Do you feel like cobbler or cake? Cookies or ice cream?

(I thought that comment about the boys being shipped off to war (priesthood) was hilarious!).

Also, I have a couple of games in mind so brush up on your knowledge of the Medley fam and your spouse's past!

I'm coming.

I should be packing, cleaning, preparing, scheduling. Here I am blogging about it instead. It started out innocently--a trip to be with Miriam and their new firstborn. Suddenly it is a family reunion. How does it just happen? I thought family reunions took effort and here we are watching the phenomenon gracefully roll along as if it has its own power source, like my heart does.

I am still coming for the newborn. I will be an excellent sport about all the exciting reunion schedule, but I will have one part of my heart on the trail and the other in the bassinet. So if I seem a little quiet, (right!) you will know why.

I love all my daughters and the births of their babies. It is a special bond that forms as we talk and laugh over the shared experiences. What is it about this new horizon in my life, when my son's wife is carrying my new grandchild, that fills me with wonder? I have been a little embarrassed about my crazy love of having babies, but Katie is all over it!! Children sense that they were wanted and cherished. I think they get it while still in the womb. The special dance between the grandmothers I will again do in March. I am in a different place with this one. But I have always felt arms tightly around me, welcoming me into the circle. You do not know how beautiful it has been.

Some things I look forward to: Holding my little girls, reading to them, telling them stories, watching the kids dance, talking with each individual, listening to a session of conference (although the chance of listening is somewhat compromised), singing, seeing Hannah relax, going to DI, a fabric shop, Deseret Book, feeling like I can be myself.

Some things I am nervous about: My back, sleeping poorly, being held responsible for Dad's distracted nature, listening to his complaining about not being able to surf (laugh all you want, I am serious!), being photographed, getting back into Arcata Airport on time.

So I will step into our car...hope it makes it far enough for you all to come rescue us...and off we will come. Leaving home to come home.

Reunion plans

Hello all you lovely lovely people.

Our weekend reunion is on the horizon. Everyboooooddddy readdddyyyy???

I talked to both Dad and Mom on separate occasions and of course, their stories never line up, so this is what I have put together so far for plans:

--Thursday night they arrive, they stay over night at Miriam's house. Assuming no baby has come. If Rachel has a stopover on her way to California, she will be in town this night only, but I haven't heard from her if she will stop in SL or not. She has to leave early Friday morning. Boohoo, Rache.

--Friday is an adventure day, do whatever, on whatever schedule you want. Me and the kids may or may not come down.
Friday night Mom and Dad come stay at my house. Jared and Lynn may stay over night as well. Naomi and Colin arrive Friday night sometime around 8 or 9pm.

--Saturday morning Jared and Lynn are cooking breakfast at our house. Everyone may want to get up here fairly early (9) so we can eat together. Sometime during the day (could be 11 am, could be 2pm, whatever) we are going to head up the canyon and take a little walk around Silver Lake (probably about 1/4 of a mile and pretty flat, but incredibly beautiful). This could include a picnic lunch, we'll see.

Sometime Saturday Grama Jeannie, Grampa Dee, and John's family will be driving out to meet up with us. Not sure the time yet.

Saturday evening we'll have spaghetti and garlic bread and the boys will head out for Priesthood Session (minus Sean maybe if he wants to attend with his Dad!).

AKA: SATURDAY EVENING IS GIRL'S NIGHT. That includes lots o' chocolate and tons of chatter.

--Sunday is pretty unplanned. Watch conference, that's a biggie. Everyone just come in their comfy clothes and we'll have tons of food here to eat all day. There's a park up the road, so we can always walk up there. It'll be a day where we can all just be together and enjoy the chaos. We for sure need to do some music this day!!!

Naomi and Colin leave Sunday evening. BOOO HOOOO.

--Monday is up in the air. Mom and Dad and kids may want to drive down to Utah County again to see Gideon's house or maybe do another activity or some sight seeing.

--Any or all of this might change if Miriam has that baby!

--Any input, add in the comments.

--Can't wait to see your faces and punch your shoulders.

xoxo

A Few Memories of the Green House

The house was not always green! In fact for most of our eleven years living there it was...brown, light brown, pinkish, taupe. Anyway, one day we decided to paint it. I was to pick the color and I wanted to live in a green house. To me, many green houses in town were so pretty. So I looked at the swatches and decided that my favorite shade was Barbados Green. Why did I not heed the warning of the name? As soon as a significant amount was applied to the house, I knew I was in trouble. I was horrified. Although I loved the color, it was almost obsene on a house! I decided that I would just go ahead and love it, endure the shocked looks on all our friends' faces, and pretend it was the best choice ever. There was nothing else to do.
Soon thereafter, it came time to sell it and we closed a deal in 45 days! A Mexican family (who still lives there and are good friends with us) bought it right away. In America, house colors were going more trendy, earthy, quiet tones while in Mexico are bright and festive colors. Of course they would love it. Funny thing, though, within a year they had new siding put on, the kind that requires no painting. It turned out to be the same color as the house before the Barbados Green!

One of the clearest memories I have is the creation of the game: Hide the person. It was preceded by a game we had been playing called Hide the Van. There were tons of hiding places in that house. The closets had drawers under them and there were plenty of beds and dressers. After exhausting all of that, the hiding places became more sophistocated. I stopped playing as I watched Dad increase the risk to your safety to get the "perfect" spot.

After fifteen years and seven kids, we got a dishwasher (which was no longer me!). We saved $100 a month for four months and paid cash. This was my ticket to sound mental health. I seriously loved my dishwasher nearly as much as I loved my children. I could never figure out, though, why loading it was the least popular job of you kids. I collasped in abject joy at the thought of placing dirty dishes in a machine and taking them out perfectly clean.

I got a phone call one day from the Times Standard. They wanted to feature our family in the paper because we were a functional large family, native to Eureka. I remember all of us sitting around and she (I can't remember her name anymore) asking us all kinds of questions about being in a big family. All you guys sat on the couch (Jared and Rachel were draped accross the back) and were not too wiggly, but you all answered her which impressed her so much that the article turned out very good.

How can I ever forget the big earthquake? The older children and Dad were somewhere up Fern Canyon at the time. As the tremor increased, I took the little ones under the kitchen table. I don't ever panic but rather enjoy earthquakes and this was no different. This had a calming effect on every one but little Naomi. She buried her face in my lap so hard the she was just short of climbing inside my body! She refused to budge, not making a peep. The earth shuddered for a good half hour, or maybe we just kept feeling the rocking motion. After some time, I lifted Naomi up. She had fallen asleep, still pressed firmly into my legs and was feverish. We all felt bad for her.

One year, all you kids got your money together and bought a room for our anniversary. You also offered to babysit for that night. It was a wonderful time at the Carter House Inn. When we came home the next day, the entire livingroom floor was completely covered in blankets, sleeping bags, pillows, stuffed animals, bowls, toys, etc. Even though I was eight month pregnant and the room was ridiculous, I remember enjoying cleaning, thinking that this will be a great story to tell someday.

Kid of the Week

Had a memory bite pop up tonight.

Kid of the week.

Mom and Dad, that was the best idea ever. I remember getting special treatment; sitting in the front seat, picking the FHE treat, etc.

And it was just ingenious. I'm sure it saved so many arguments for you guys.

Definitely implementing that one.

Props to the best parents.

Isaac

September 14, 1996

Dad

Isaac - I told him when he was about 9 years old that a movie was too violent for him, he said, "but , Dad, I love violence!" He whistles three octaves, played in the jazz band and the orchestra at zane, and plays lead guitar in the Dad/son blues duet group. He used to sleep walk - he gave us some weird answers when he would stumble out into the hallway. Had to make sure you pointed him to the bathroom - he would imagine it was anywhere, if ya know what I mean! Confident, handsome, smart - and friendly, good combo.

Mom

Isaac broke all the rules that I had so proudly brought about. He did not sleep all night until about three years old. He screamed his way through the first two years of his life. Potty training was a disaster. The year he was born was the first year we went to the family reuinion and stayed all week. I spent nearly the whole time out in the tent with him because he cried and screamed so much. After that trial by fire, he finally grew out of it all and became the most lovely child to raise. It was almost an overnight change.

He loved to play with Bethany and Bethany loved to play with him. They were endless in their imaginations and their scenarios and got along 100% and were always together. When Bethany went to Kindergarden, Isaac moped (almost to a mentally ill degree) all morning until she came home. Then all was well and happy with them both. As we approached Bethany's first grade (all day) it was almost essential to enroll Isaac in the Backyard Pre-school. He LOVED it. He loved everything about it!

Sarah

I got the call at Sizzler. Mom was in the hospital and she was about to have Isaac. I was so excited. I held him and loved him and about a year later, I moved away. When he was five or so, I brought Jake home to meet the family. Isaac was such an amazing kid and still continues to be. When I hear Ruby talk, there is a striking resemblance to Isaac, and it reminds me of him so often.

Hannah

Isaac: the very essence of sweetness. I appreciate who you are. I remember when you came in to this world. We loved you from the beginning. Once when kneeling down for family prayer before you were born, we felt there was someone missing. We knew you were there, in heaven, your voice still heard. Now, as you change from a little boy to an adolescent and young adult, my mind is continually brought back to that wonderful day when I met you. At the hospital for the very last new baby of mom's. You are the 9th but your welcome was great as if you were the only one. You have always had such a great personality. So full of life, so funny, and always somehow becoming the life of the party. I tend to imagine you as an amazing missionary out there in the mission field. Stay close to Heavenly Father so your strong and humble testimony will be a bright beacon for others to see.
Happy birthday Isaac buddy. I hope your day is special and you know how much I love you.

Miriam

Isaac always fell asleep during scripture study or family prayer. He could fall asleep anywhere and never wake up again once it was past 9:00pm. And if you didn't help him to the bathroom he would just go wherever he ended up. Me and Aaron bought him the new Batman movie for his birthday. He turned the jacket over and saw the rating "PG-13?! Sweet, that means it's good!" His wrestling couch told him not to smile so much. He would pull any stunt Gideon wanted him too - especially when it included riding the skate board really fast and going careening into a mattress...or the ground, whatever. He always wanted to eat top ramen and buy starbursts and nerds at the store. I told him all that stuff was "fake" food and "fake" candy and refused to make it or buy it. So, I married someone who's favorite food is top ramen and nerds. (And Isaac, I confess that I have succumbed and eat it all the time too). Thanks for all the sweet "best guardian ever" notes. You're a special kid. Happy Birthday!!

Naomi

Colin and I were able to spend four days with Isaac recently in Eureka while the rest of the fam was out of town. He is a riot. I love him. One thing that I will always remember about Isaac is his wood working stuff. He is always doing something in the garage. It usually involved taking wood that was moms and nailing it together into something! One christmas, he made us all something out of wood. He made me a foot stool that had material stuffed with batting and stapled onto the top. It was beautiful. Isaac never stops. I hope he never runs out of gas. Love you Isaac. Naomi

Bethany

i think the best memories of isaac are just when we would play together. the games we would play consisted of barbie, cars, and army men, and house!

Where were you?

Today is September 11th. It was 9 years ago. I was 12. That long already. I remember mom coming in and waking me up. I kept my blanket with me and I came into the TV room where the TV was actually on. At 7 in the morning? The TV is never on then. Mom said a plane had crashed into the World Trade Center. What was that? Where was that? Why was a plane crashing such a big deal? Isn't that a normal thing? As we watched, a second plane hit the other tall building. That was when I really woke up. This couldn't have been an accident. The rest of that day was a blur. I most of my classes we watched the TV. I didn't have much homework. No one was very happy. Most of my teachers cried.
A lot of peoples lives changed that day. I don't have anything exceptionally philosophical or awesome to say but I try to remember on the 11th day of September that its been another year that someone's wife, brother, fiance, father didn't come home. I pray for those families. I hope we all do.

Letter to Hannah from Mom

What brush has painted this? 

The strokes that glide down each shaft of beautiful hair?

The blending of paint to the eyes?

The intricate, perfect mouth?

The fastinating skin?

The shoulders always ready to bear a small girl's head, or a strong man's hug?

The inviting gaze into my face?

The voice so easy to hear in this picture?

 

What brush sweeps across this heart?

The strokes that sing out from deep within?

The movement of her doubts and fears, and conquering spirit rising?

The stirring of love for all that she has been given?
The gifts held wisely, ready to share at any moment?

The incredible friend who so freely loves me, her mum?

 

Would I have known such an artist gave me this portrait 29 years ago, I would have knealt before her sooner.

Rachel

I love the memory idea from Miriam, great birthday thing! Happy Birthday to you!!!

I talked to Rachel today and she said there's a 90% chance that she'll come to the reunion! She would most likely fly in Friday and fly out Monday. She said she won't know until about two weeks out. So let's all hope she can make it so we can have fun and TAKE SOME FAMILY FFFFYYYYYOTOS!!!!!

PS, I added a few more memories in the posts below so don't forget to check them out.

xoxo

Miriam

September 6, 1985

Dad

Mirs and the Tu-tu! Dressed to kill, baby. You loved it. How bout Mirs playing the Entertainer Jimmy Hendrix Style? Upside down laying on the piano Bench? Miriam and her friends - as a placid, "go with the flo" kinda guy, I could never understand the drama/pain that was always involved! Mirs, sorry for the trauma of your first backpacking trip. The fierce wind and almost losing hannah over the cliff... Beautiful child, my "brown -eyed girl" Mirs played the organ for the ward when she couldn't even reach the pedals. People were like" what's that little kid doin up there?" Once mom and I made Mirs go to church despite her protests of being sick. She launched right in the middle of Sacrament meeting. Can never forget Mirs and Lynn, the piano teacher.

Sarah

Miriam: I have memories of her playing music beautifully, hiking with her and just generally having a good time. But it wasn't until before her mission that we really bonded. We exchanged some emails that were so deep and philosophical that I can't believe we could communicate so well without even talking on the phone. I loved her thoughts, wisdom and deep ambitions. After her mission, we still corresponded that way and I talked to her a lot about feeling "normal" again. I loved this time of her (and my) life.

Naomi

I remember Miriam always being so stylish. She did the short hair, the skirt over the pants, made hemp necklaces, awesome earrings, and the vests. I have always looked up to Miriam from style to talent. Miriam and I spent an entire summer together after her mission and became closer than we had ever been. That was one of the best summers of my life. Work, Humboldt Branch, Dating, Beach, outside adventures, Florida, Utah, Meeting Aaron- that summer was awesome. Each summer since, I think about our time together. I am so proud of Miriam and all she has accomplished. I am so happy she's going to be a mom. Miriam and Aaron will be great parents. Love you. Naomi

Bethany

miriam: roooommate!! the best memories were laying in our beds trying to make the best weirdest sounding noises....i never got any sleep!

Thank you everyone that came to my surprise party! And thank you to all who sent emails. Please comment if you have your own memories to share!

EDITED TO ADD:

Hannah:

My favorite, most endearing thing I remember about Miriam is the letters she would send me on my mission. She has always been beyond her years. Someone so careful as to not step on the imaginary lines she created with the corners in the furniture, I knew she was special. Miriam has always loved the things she loves. Whether it's heart shaped glasses or teaching piano, her passion for those things shines. Her love for the gospel radiates. Thanks for being who you are Mirs, I hope and pray you never change. I love you for all that you stand for.

And two from Mom:

Miriam loved her tappy shoes.  After wearing them to kindergarten for a few weeks, Mrs. Piland called me and said that she would not be able to wear them because they were not safe on the playground, being so slippery.  I explained this to Miriam and banned the wearing of them to school.  She was OK with that.  At the end of that week, Mrs. Piland called me again and asked me to not let her wear them to school.  I told her that she had not worn them to school all week.  Oh no, said she, Miriam has had them all week.  What?  Come to find out that Miriam had worn her school shoes to school and had smuggled her tappy shoes to school in her backpack, changing as she got to school!

 

I was playing the organ one Sunday and had practiced "America, the Beautiful" for sacrament meeting.  It was challenging for me but I felt mostly prepared.  In the middle of that hymn, to my horror, I glimpsed little baby Miriam crawling toward the organ.  Dad must have been distracted (can't imagine how!) and had not seen her escape.  So I realized, helplessly, that I was on my own.  It was in a few moments that Dad began to hear some crazy base notes coming from the organ.  He saw Miriam climbing over the pedals while I continued as best I could.  He did rescue me, but the congregation had a good giggle out of my plight. 

Gideon

August 19, 2010

Dad

I remember sneaking bottles to Gid when he was supposedly weaned. And who could forget the "splat/burp" routine he used to do - ya know, the face plant followed by the long belch? Gid's wrestlling career was better than any Horatio Alger story! He started as an 85 lb runt, I don't think he had to cut weight til he was a senior. Loved those wrestling tournements. The classic was the viola/cello duet that Gid and Tate did. Ya shoulda seen it! It was so bad it was funny. I think Ms. Rust was the teacher. How bout Gid and Richie Messerly in Limited? I think they drove Rust over the deep end!

Sarah

Favorite memory of Gideon: I went away to college for a year, came back at age 19, and took Gideon on a backpacking trip. We went for three days, two nights, near fern canyon. We had a great time. I seem to remember packing mostly marshmallows to eat... maybe some onion soup that I cooked for us. I set up the tent and we hunkered down for a cold Humboldt weekend. We spotted a long pole the next day, I think it was a bear pole, and Gideon climbed up to the very top. I remember thinking... man, this is dangerous, Dad probably wouldn't like this much, but ah well.

Edited to add Sarah's comment:

I loved Gideon's "chick phase" before his mission (and before Katie of course!). He would talk to me about each one of them and about what he liked and didn't like. I think he was loving life in the college atmosphere.

Then he met Katie. I remember how much I loved her the first time he brought her up to meet us. They came to our home in Lehi and before long Katie and I were discussing Oprah and Africa and how we wanted to save the world!

Gid was confused a little after his mission and so was Katie. Finally, they both closed that distance together. And I am forever grateful they did.

So proud of you Gid bones!

Miriam

From roughly age 2 to 8 years, Gideon lived on the spinner. At the fair he rode the Gravitron like 20 times in a row since there was no line. Then when he was probably 10 he threw up for like two weeks straight. I think all the spinning finally caught up to him. He always liked to destroy things; plates, plastic containers, milk jugs, my dolls...eh hem. He was a studly bass and wrestler in his later years in high school. Sorry I wasn't the nicest big sister when you were a freshman...but you were always so happy-go-lucky about everything - and still are. Thanks for being a good example to me Gid.

Naomi

Gideon: One memory I have about Gideon is his cinderblock head. He jumped off the dresser and bounced off the bed headfirst into the wall. It left a Gideon's dent... in the wall! I recently went to my teachers house and was telling his kids stories about when I was kid and when I told them about head, they couldn't stop laughing. But Gideon always knew what my buttons were. He found pleasure in making me as angry as he could. But despite all of that, Gideon and I are the best of friends. I am so happy for him and all that he has done with his life- especially for his lovely wife. Thanks for bringing her into the fam Gid. Hope you had an awesome Birthday. Love ya. Naomi

Bethany

Gideon: i remember when he convinced dad to let him toss a lead brick into the screen of an old TV. it made a HUGE explosion!!

We hope you had the best birthday Gideon!

Thanks to everyone who submitted their memories, you can post a comment and share yours too.


EDITED TO ADD:


Memories from Mom:

Besides sleeping for the first year of his life, one memory of Gideon sticks out vividly.  When he was about three years old, he wept through every meal.  He sat there (next to his tender, doting father, and under the eye of his exasperated mother) completely awash in tears.  Dad would tenderly lift his chin and spoon in a bite, talking encouragingly to him.  Gideon would never refuse a bite and would resume the sniffling until the next dose of food.  I would roll my eyes and declare that he can feed himself and that Dad was only causing Gideon to be an emotional wreck.  Dad would say cheerfully, "he isn't spoiled, just well taken care of!" 

 

My favorite memory of him was his agility and fearlessness.  Every Sunday after church he could be found somewhere in the rafters (aka basketball hoops) swinging around.  He would run up the wall and grab the bar support, swing up onto it and sit up there watching all the other kids try the same stunt.  It was to the dismay of Bishop Bingham, who would tattle on him to us, shaking his head and sporting a wee grin when he did so. 

Edited to Add:

Katie:

Aw you guys are gonna make a pregnant girl cry with all these nice things about Gideon! If I had to pick a favorite memory of Gideon in all our four years of lovin each other, I'd have to say it was when we first became friends and we were working at the Pita Pit. He would blast Nickle Creek on the sound system when we would be closing, mopping floor and such, and he would sing like crazy. Customers actually commented on the nice singing coming from the back of the shop from time to time. I knew then I had to keep him.

Naomi and Colin

...Are coming down this weekend. They'll be here Friday night (I think at Miriam and Aaron's) and leaving Saturday night. So excited to see them if we can. We probably won't be coming down during the day but maybe we could all meet up for dinner on Saturday? We could have a bbq here with ribs and corn. Let me know if anyone's interested in that.

Also, Miriam is largely pregnant. This is a very very hard time in a woman's life. Be nice to her, send her kind texts, give her gifts, rub her feet. In general, just think about her. She and Aaron's life is about to change so much! I want to hear your name options you guys!!!

Zeeee Rdrdrdreunion.

So. Medley Reunion is Saturday, October 2 and Sunday, October 3. Now locations are up in the air but we can figure that out later. So everyone that works Saturdays and Sundays, please request that weekend off if you can. We hope to be together as much as is possible.

These are a few things that I would like to see happen:

1. A few of us or all of us, if weather permits, can go down to temple square for a session of conference on the lawn.

2. Family photo

3. Music time. No one can miss this. This has to happen. Bring instruments, your voices, whatever, but we're jammin'.

4. Priesthood session would be great if all the guys could go together. And during that, is our girl's night! it has to happen! So be prepared! There will be chocolate!

5. A little hike that everyone can go on (Miriam, your situation will be up in the air), weather permitting.

Any other ideas?

ps, I talked to Rachel and she's not 100% but looks hopeful! She'll know soon.

From Mom

You are right.  I had a First Grader, a kindergartener (you), a three year old and a two year old.  Miriam was born when you went into first grade, Gideon when you were in the third and Naomi when you were halfway through fifth.  Other mothers were still my age.  When I took Isaac to kindergarten, the other mothers could have been my daughters!  Next Monday, I have only high schoolers (seminarians!).  

 

What I remember was that rush of terror and thrill I had felt the year before was no less acute with you.  Each one of my precious ones walked out of my loving arms and into the world--and did so very well despite the high seas.  I felt like each of you was my first and last.  I kind of felt like that about your births.  But the potty training will get no nestalgic ode.  Some parts of parenting deserve abject loathing.

 

Good luck kindergarter!  Have a happy year both of you girls.  See you in a few weeks.

 

Love, Mom, Grama

Fern Canyon

Naomi and Colin came into town this last week and we went to Fern Canyon and went Dinosaur hunting.....it was great fun and definitely reminded me of the good old camping/backpacking days! (even though i wasnt alive yet during those days....)

Kindergarten

Today was Grace's first day of 2nd grade.

Brought back some memories. I remember walking to school with Rachel, and then Hannah and the rest as they started.

But what I remember most is Mom walking me up to Kindergarten. She must have had Rachel, Hannah and Jared by then. The same as I will have when I take Ruby to Kindergarten next week.

I love that she walked me in and was there to pick me up. Out of the car, in person, there for her second little kindergartner. An effort, but what a mom!

Love you mama.

Loving It

Thanks for starting this blog Sarah! And thanks for posting everybody! Gideon and I have had a blast reading everyone's memories. I love hearing all about the Medley family's growing up adventures. You guys are awesome. Keep posting!

Memories of the bright Green House

Hot Deck - where Sarah used to lay out, we used to run around until our feet were burning and then take turns in the plastic tub of water, just big enough for one pair of feet, to cool off before we jumped back in the circle of children running in a circle yelling 'hot deck!'

Back-room Forts - we would build forts out of the entire room. A hanger was poked through the blanket and hung on the ceiling light. At my young age I felt like it was a castle and the ceilings were 20 feet tall.

Scramble - Sarah and Rachel (and Hannah, when she could get her way) would line up and we would do flips over and over as fast as we could.

Mannheim Steamroller - we would create an 'obstacle course' around the living room (basically you run around the edge of the room, jumping onto any piece of furniture that was in the way) and turn on Mannheim Steamroller and see how fast we could all run. I'm sure we all sustained minor injuries from that game...except Gideon, of course, his head was a cinder block.

Wild Hearts Can't Be Broken - I was always the blind girl and Rachel was always the horse. We always playing the 'dive scene'.

Capture - no explanation needed.

When I think about each sibling and what they mean to me, this is what comes to mind:

Rachel-we would fight a lot growing up. So glad I didn't kill her when in one of our heated moments because we are kindred spirits. She means the world to me.

Sarah-The peacemaker.... wait no.... the TEASER!! She was always loud and made everyone laugh. I always wanted to be like her. I am so happy and blessed to know her.

Jared-When we would fight and he would cry I would get so mad because it made me feel bad. I was tough but his tears would always pull on my heart strings and I hated that! He has always been this amazingly talented person.... I mean Hale Bop Comet? Really? That was amazing! Love that guy.

Miriam-Quiet and mysterious. Always hopping over imaginary lines on the floor. Always the observer. She always wanted a guardian child and was continuously mad that she didn't have one. Until Isaac! So glad she's my friend.

Gideon-He was always on that spinner. He would jump off the couch and land flat on his stomach. He was wild and had a high voice until he surprisingly sang bass one day! He and Naomi were inseparable, yet, seemed to be fighting all the time. He has become a replica of Dad! Seems to be the type of husband to Katie as Dad is to Mom.

Naomi-Always been helpful. She was tall and thin. Gideon would never admit it growing up but there was a time when she was taller than him. She always had her eyes a little squinted but was angelic and sweet. I thought she was my baby that mom had only done the work to get her here for ME! She will always be y little guardian child. I will never regret that time when she was my baby.

Bethany-She always cut her hair. She rarely had bangs because they were cut all the way down to the scalp. She wouldn't grow. I remember when she was 5 and the size of a 2 year old. Whenever I would come home she would run and jump to me. Can't believe how much she is growing. How fast time goes.

Isaac- Happy. Jared's right hand man. He was in that movie with Grandpa. So well behaved. He is growing without stopping. Can't believe he is a Freshman!!

All so special to me.