A Mellow Yellowstone Weekend

A herd of buffaloes barricaded the East entrance to Yellowstone Park, causing an hour delay. When traffic backed up beyond the entrance, the rangers raced to our aid two miles inside, honking horns, shoeing them off the road and screaming at the tourists to 'Move on!'

While waiting we had an event with car sickness and no shoulder to pull on.   Those behind us could see our dilema moving over for us to back-up a half-dozen car lengths to the last pull-off, causing a traffic jam of our own and quickly jumping out for the upchuck of the day. 

Mammoth Falls and the boys.

Railing in the Yellowstone Lodge.  Touring the old lodge, climbing to the highest balcony, checking out the gift shop and tree-branch settees; we made our way to the crowds mulling around for the next spouting of Old Faithful.

Mammoth Falls, the Petrified Tree, Paint Pots, four bears, that's right four, elk, a coyote and steaming bubbly pools were just a few of the exciting wonders enjoyed.  Can't forget that herd of buffalo and a thousand more just like them.

 Sure enough on cue, the famous geyser blew sky high. Many smaller ones further north on the boardwalk followed suit keeping the show going.

Did I mention the weather was mellow in Yellowstone for this time of year ensuring a great visit.

Significant Signs by Schmidt

Wheeler Farm needed a new sign.  They came calling to the Salt Lake Woodcarvers group on an evening while they were holding the weekly class in the 'Barn'.  Several people recommended Allan for the job.  After looking at the plans, he agreed to make it.   

The wood and design was provided by the 'Farm'.  The bolting together of the planks, planing, pattern making/transfer, routing, sanding, staining and assembly was masterfully done by Allan. 

The end result is a beautiful, eye catching sign welcoming guests to the busy farm. 

Driveway Does a Do Si Do

After 25 years of having a cracked driveway, we replaced it last month.   Allan and his trusty Bobcat had fun crushing it like a graham cracker fulfilling years of frustration.

A few days after it had originally been poured, the brick layer drove on it.  Soon after the cracks began.  We were mad, but couldn't prove the cause of it. 

To the rescue came the flatwork guys. The place was a beehive of activity, with one cement truck unloading and another one waiting a short distance away.  Glad to have a week of cool days and rain, it cured nicely this time. 


No more snow shovels getting caught on a ridge. No more uneven areas. No more money to spend this year.

 
Sporting a sign saying 'Driveway Replacement - Call Alan or Doug' was stuck in the lawn hoping to generate business for more. It appears to be working because several people have called.   We hope to snag some work from our new sample.

Now that we can use our lovely, clean driveway again, the garage doors need a new paint job. It looks like the domino affect has begun.

The Wait Is Over, Our Baby Boy Has Arrived!!

When does a baby ever let us call the shots.  True to form, our newest baby boy and grandchild arrived May 10th.  Going into labor in the early morning Breann called from the hospital at 11:30 a.m. to say, her baby was coming.  The doctor would begin shortly after noon. 

He was born at 12:31 p.m. at 7 lbs 2oz. 20 inches long.  Named after his parents favorite lake, Henry, came home Monday along with his anxious folks. 

A very happy mom on Mother's Day and forever.

 An April 27th talk by Ann Dibb, said that there are a variety of holy places. Number one on her list was hospital rooms, filled with families and new babies.  Being in the presence of this angel was truly a beautiful experience. 

Can't Wait to See You

I am not the only one anxious to see the baby coming to our family.  The parents, Jed & Breann, have been waiting a lifetime to be officially initiated into the club.  Maybe not that long, but surely they are not only excited, but scared to death as well.  Life will never be the same as they now know it.  It will be better!!  We cannot wait to see this angel from heaven. 

The house is filling up with vital items.  Target and many other businesses has them on 'Their having a baby' list.  

Only five days to go.  That would be 111 hours give or take a few. The bags are packed and tank is full.   

Glad for the Master Grad

College graduation is a culmination of dreams anticipated, sacrifices made and work accomplished.  On April 26th at age 27, Jory stepped over the 'Masters' line at BYU.

Did you see me wave?  As the 2013 grads entered the hall, on que we joined the waving crowd breaking out in spots.  At the end smiles were served up in generous helpings as each name was said. 

Surely several had download the same big loud 'hurrah' that went off here and there, as the grad's were announced.

Congratulations, Jory!  This is a great accomplishment by an awesome son that we love dearly.   His name is listed here.

 Sarah deserves a medal for encouragement, empathy and helping Jory envision the enormous, end result.  On April 27th he turned 28.

How lucky to be in the arms of a master grad.

Breann & Baby's Shower

Brayle was assigned to take pictures of the baby shower we held a few weeks ago.  There are three.  Take a look at the diaper cake centerpiece with yellow polka-dot accents and bottle scrubber.

 

 

 Breann taking a breather and contemplating motherhood.   She looks quite small for being eight months plus along. 

 Sarah, our artist in residence after making the cake, cake pops, Rice Krispie treats and punch.  She is terrific.