Oh the Wonders of Parenting

Since parenting is a full time job I thought you might want to see how the Canada Geese family takes care of their young. This proud father is keeping up the rear guard as the banded mother takes the lead. It might even be just the opposite, since I can't tell which is which.

They look like their on a fun excursion to the zoo or maybe going out for treats on the Jordan River parkway allowing me to snap a photo of them. Quickly the father pulled in between the camera & kids to keep them safe. AS they crossed the river it was fun to watch how smoothly they handled the process.

May you each have success as you guide your own sweet angels. I see you doing your best to keep them shielded from the worries of the world & show forth love & more.

On this Mother's Day week, I'd like to say what great mothers, my daughters are. They may not all be mothers, but have set wonderful examples for me to see their wisdom. I have watched you over the years. I see the qualities you have acquired and used to make you the great ladies you are today.

Jenn isn't afraid to get involved in the community. She shares her talents, time & serves the greater good. She cares for many in a busy way.

Mauri works hard, attracting the attention of employers who know they can depend on her always. She is loyal and smart in all she does.

Alicia ever the patient teacher guiding children to learn the three R's. Reading, Choose the Right & . Creativity & keeping children active by doing projects helps them see the importance of keeping busy.

Breann doesn't give up in the face of disappointment. She hangs in there to finish the task, showing others it can be done. Her quiet determination is strength in and of itself.

Sarah has done a great job of helping ground Jory to adulthood & responsibility. She is thoughtful & kind, doing her best to be a good daughter-in-law.

Thank you all for being a part of the wonderful sisterhood in our family.

Dressed to the Nines

I noticed when we visited the Stevenson family, that little Emma Delight has the kind of wardrobe we all dream of. Everything is new, stylish, clean & classy. It is hard to decide what to have her wear, because her clothes are all so darn cute. We only got a few photos of her because of leaving our camera in the car, but believe me this little gal sparkles from head to toe.

This bottle brush bush was the perfect background for Emma in her red velour outfit. It includes black leggings with red polka dots. Stay tuned for more cute photos. Maybe her mom will post some, for us to enjoy a real fashion show. Eat your hearts out ladies.

Every Member a Missionary

A year ago, Bess, a friend of Jenn's, she worked with asked her about the Church. Much was shared about why the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints members are happy and do what they do. Bess was invited to join the Stevenson family at church on Sundays. Soon she was receiving the missionary discussions, reading the Book of Mormon and committing to baptism.

It all started because Bess asked a question. Jenn was a friend, as well as missionary. Now here is it one year later & Bess received her endowments, on March 30th in the Spokane Temple. We are outside while the ceremony is taking place with Jennifer in attendance.

Last night the missionaries came by our house. They asked me to introduce them to the Meier's, a family in our neighborhood. They want to bear their testimonies & share the gospel message. I've been a friend of Janet Meier's, an inactive member, for several years. Her five children ages 8 to 18 are not members. What a gift if they hear & accept the gospel.

The challenge has been made. Now I need to step up to the plate and show Heavenly Father how much I love him, by inviting his beloved children to share in the joy I have. Pray for them to be ready & me to be a missionary & 'Do it'.

A Visit to the Salt Lake Temple

After years of desire to visit the Salt Lake Temple, Mauri & Aaron, Jory & Sarah, Dad & I finally made it for a session & sealing. This was a first real visit for Mauri, Aaron & Sarah to see the inside & rooms of the Salt Lake Temple.

Thanks to Jennifer's searching & finding family names that needed their temple work to be completed, we had a special reason to go. For the past year we have done the initiatory, endownments & now the sealings for our extended family members.

Camille entertained the kids on Temple Square for us. Then we all had a yummy meal at the Blue Iguana. What a great day.

Greater Salt Lake Wood Carver's Show

The pictures here include: wood relief by Glen Beere, eagle (don't know artist), 2 maple leaf candy dishes carved by Dad (received a blue ribbon) & bunnies by Tom Mellenthin.

The 18th annual Wood Carver's Show was last weekend. Dad prepared for the big day all winter. With lack of employment, he spent the extra time carving. His classy creations run from A-Z, beginning with birds, candy dishes, chip carving, geometric shapes, flowers, leaf shaped bowls, ornaments, signs, stars & more. Many of you may be the benefactors of this newly honed talent.

He assisted Nicolay Motro in teaching a chip carving class to a standing room only crowd at the weekly club meeting on Wheeler Farm. All it takes to begin is the right knife, wood, a pattern and a little practise. Go to greatsaltlakewoodcarvers.com for details.

He took photos as the art pieces were registered. My old junior high school math teacher, Mr Beere, submitted some work. I'm surprised he was recognized after 40 years. Many women enter & do beautiful detailed work. This hobby isn't just for men. See you at the show.

Hunter's big day!

Hunter was baptized March 6th. What a great day for him! Aaron baptized and Gramps confirmed him. Hopefully Hunter will always remember what a great day it was. Aaron's grandparents were able to be there for the big day. Jed and I came down for the day as well. It was a lot of fun being able to be there for Hunter's day.