Carol Jean Stewart Paulsen – 1928-2009

Trish's beloved mother, Carol Jean Stewart Paulsen, died yesterday, May 27, at her home in Salt Lake City in the arms of her beloved eternal companion, Carl. Trish and the rest of the Paulsen family are quietly going about their preparations for the funeral, which will be held on Saturday, May 30.

Carol was a wonderful mother-in-law. Her light and optimism filled every room she entered. She was full of sunshine and color and loved every moment of her life. In spite of near constant pain during the last few months of her life, she never complained. Instead she always buoyed up others and had a kind word for everyone she encountered. Everything Trish knows about mothering, about caring, and about having faith in the Gospel of Jesus Christ she learned from her mother.

She undoubtedly has had joyful reunions on the other side with family members and friends that have passed on before her, but most especially with her son Leif. I also know that she has already met and talked to my own mother, Cleo Judd Riggs. They share the same birthday, December 7.

May Heavenly Father continue to bless you, C. J., as we honor you in the days ahead.

Elvin Loy Riggs

E. L. "Al" Riggs just underwent heart surgery last Thursday the 21st at St. Mark's Hospital in Salt Lake. He had a valve replaced and two bypasses. He had serious trepidations about undergoing the surgery, mainly because he really didn't feel all that bad. I mean, what's a little shortness of breath between friends! But doctors said that because of his excellent overall health he was a good candidate for this kind of surgery, even at 85 years of age!

Since the surgery he has been on constant pain medication, making his speech slurred and his mind a bit slower than usual. He mentioned more than once that had he known how bad his pain would be from the incision he wouldn't have gone under the knife. I called him on it, though, and he admitted that he was not serious.

He went home today and is expected to fully recover. But the recovery will be long and hard. Kim Hess is here this week to lend a helping hand while Dawn Carson will provide ongoing family support along with the rest of us who live here in Utah.

God bless, and best wishes for a speedy recovery, Dad!

Words of Wisdom

Do NOT do this or you will catch the Swine Flu!